afaleh
674
Help me appreciate the Pepsi
So I was pretty excited when Rolex released the GMT master II Pepsi, and equally disappointed when my turn came up and the AD called. It’s been about a year now since I’ve owned it and my feelings pretty much revolve around “meh”
I enjoy watches for the finish quality, mechanical innovation, heritage, and usability.
On the pro side, the Pepsi has the PAN AM thing, and the platinum bezel is very nice.
The finish quality in Rolex took watches is what really annoys me at this price point, the brushed sections are industrial grade and the polished sections resemble a tin can. My Seiko at Marinemaster LE is in the same league at 1600usd, Oris comes to mind as well in that regard.
In contrast, both my DJII, Sky Dweller, and first release Yakhtmaster have noticeably better case finishing. Their no Vacheron but it’s certainly acceptable for the price point. The Pepsi however is at the bottom of the barrel.
Given what I see, the Pepsi should be a tough sell at its current retail point. So what’s the fuss about? Am I missing something? I feel like there is something I need to be looking for when wearing the watch to appreciate it, just not sure I know what that is. 
Help me appreciate the Pepsi
So I was pretty excited when Rolex released the GMT master II Pepsi, and equally disappointed when my turn came up and the AD called. It’s been about a year now since I’ve owned it and my feelings pretty much revolve around “meh” I enjoy watches for the f...
I mean the quality of finishing on the case
Both polished and brushed portions seem subpar to me when compared to offerings from Omega for instance at the same price point, even lower. The reason I am posting this is that after one year of ownership I am unsure of why this watch is so sought after,...
Interesting
I always assumed Tudor was a step down from Rolex in every sense. Will have to check them out if you recommend them
Will do
I am waiting on a Loupe System kit and will do a comparison between different brands/models focusing on case finishing
In the meantime
Here is a quick pic showing the case finish on an Oris, the Pepsi, and an Omega Planet Ocean. The Omega has the best finish by far Notice the clarity of the reflections on the polished portions, the Omega has a true mirror image, the Tudor is distorted, t...
Maybe it’s not a Vacheron but in 2050 you can wear it ….
It’s not a Vacheron but also don’t have Vacheron price…… also I think it’s a nonsense to compare Rolex with Oris….. What make a Rolex GMT Pepsi special ? It’s special because maybe your son or daughter will wear it on the wrist in 2060….. and will remain ...
Wasn’t comparing the movement
The comparison was made to gauge the exterior finishing, not the watches overall
The greatest property of this GMT is its collectability
It is not an overly "fine" watch, inside and outside.
Thanks for the suggestion
I actually like the Jubilee, fond memories of my father wearing one on a Datejust, and it is very comfy. It’s really just the quality for the price that has me perplexed. I am hoping to hear from people who love their Pepsi.
To be brutally honest, it's not for you
If you've had it for so long and it still doesn't sing to you, to me that's it. Watches at the end of the day sings to the heart, not the head. I'd use this market opportunity to sell at a profit and move on to something that actually does make your heart...
Excellent response!
I agree with you completely and you expressed your thoughts like a real champ. I won’t own a watch that doesn’t bring joy to my heart and pleasure to my eyes. Life is too short. Move that Pepsi on and let someone else enjoy it.
It’s a stainless steel Rolex, so it’s mainly a robust tool watch. But I appreciate what you’re saying about the finishing compared to others. I think other manufacturers have stepped up their game to compete. And I happen to like that Oris.
In the end, if you’re not enjoying your ownership experience then sell it and move on to something more appealing to you.
I am actually really impressed with my BLRO, especially the bracelet
I think it’s important to remember that it’s not an expensive watch at MSRP so, understandably, the finishing it nothing special. It is very utilitarian. That said, the tolerances internally and externally are perfect, and perhaps the best evidence of tha...
I hear ya
I have one too. Similar sentiment here. My favorite thing on the watch is the bezel. The dial is average at best. The jubilee is decent but not the best-in-class bracelet. Aside from the bezel, the watch is just meh. Sorry I couldn't disagree with you.
I own the same Rolex except it is the "Batgirl". The watch fits well in the current retail price.
The first time I picked up my DJ, compared that to a JLC I also own I found the edge of the DJ bracelet a bit sharp. Again, the DJ sits in the right retail price point. The Daytona is a different story. The finishing is much better than the "Batgirl". It ...
Well, Rolex is not about haute horlogerie, nor does it even try to be. But at MRSP, you can hardly get a better true gmt than the GMT Master II.
Not to mention its real-world reliability and accuracy. To me, the gmt function is a very useful and practical one, and the GMT Master II is a nearly perfect utilitarian and worry-free daily wear. With the added bonus of some real history, if one puts val...
Thank you for the responses
Some great responses, some seem to have taken offense. None intended. Comparison to other brands was made to clarify points. Again, the reason I posted this in the first place is to hear from other owners, as we learn about this hobby of ours during our y...
Interesting fact I found out about the Pepsi
While I was researching the watch this past week, I came to know that Philippe Dufour owns one and wears it quite often, even once wearing it to Watches and Wonders. If anyone knows a gem it’s him, really wish I knew his thoughts on the watch and what mak...
It doesn't mean much...
He's just wearing a reliable travel watch that shows 2 or 3 time zones.