Rolex GMT Master II 16710 Pepsi 40MM 2005 Box + Horologist Certificate

A Legacy Born Out of the Aviation Golden Age

The Rolex GMT-Master traces its lineage back to 1955, when Rolex partnered with Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) to produce a reliable tool-watch for pilots making long-haul flights. By displaying both local and home time, it allowed crews to synchronise schedules across continents and hemispheres—a true innovation during the rise of global aviation. Over the following decades, the GMT-Master cemented its status not just in the cockpit but among watch aficionados worldwide, thanks to its robust construction, straightforward functionality, and distinctive styling.

When the GMT-Master II arrived on the scene, it further refined these traits with an independently adjustable hour hand, letting wearers re-set local time without disturbing the 24-hour “home” reference. This adaptation carried the watch smoothly into the modern era, blending the jet-age soul of the original with contemporary watchmaking advancements. Today, the GMT-Master II remains a pillar of Rolex’s sports watch collection—a favourite of collectors who value both heritage and everyday practicality.

The Evolution of an Icon: The Reference 16710

Launched in 1989 as a successor to the first GMT-Master II (Reference 16760, nicknamed the “Fat Lady”), the Rolex GMT-Master II Reference 16710 enjoyed a production run that spanned until 2007. Sleeker and lighter than its predecessor, it quickly gained popularity for its balanced proportions and updated movement technology.

Inside the 16710 beats the Calibre 3185 (and in some very late examples, the 3186). This robust automatic movement provides quickset functionality for the hour hand, allowing instant local-time adjustments while the 24-hour hand continues to track a second time zone. With a 40 mm case diameter, it offers substantial wrist presence without sacrificing comfort—an ideal blend of tool-watch ruggedness and day-to-day wearability.

From the start of its run, collectors noticed minor yet significant evolutions in dial printing, lume materials (transitioning from tritium to Luminova, then Super-LumiNova), and case design (going from lug holes to a no-holes case). These incremental changes have created a rich “sub-variation” market for the 16710, encouraging enthusiasts to hunt for specific years or features that best resonate with their taste for modern functionality and vintage DNA.

A 2005 Example: Nearing the End of an Era

By 2005, Rolex was nearing the final phase of 16710 production, which would culminate in 2007. Watches from this period typically feature no lug holes on the case flanks, solid end links on the Oyster bracelet, and Super-LumiNova markers for enhanced legibility in low-light conditions. This configuration preserved the classic lines and proportions beloved by GMT fans while incorporating refined details for modern reliability.

Many 2005 pieces still house the Calibre 3185, offering a steady 48-hour power reserve, hacking seconds for precise time-setting, and the hallmark independent 12-hour hand that makes the GMT-Master II so user-friendly. It’s rare (though not impossible) for late-production 16710s to have the transitional 3186, but most 2005 models will have the dependable 3185 movement at their core. This particular watch has a 3185 movement.

An equally big draw is the instantly recognisable red-and-blue “Pepsi” bezel insert, a nod to the original 1950s GMT-Master that assigned red to daytime hours and blue to nighttime on the 24-hour scale. This colourway has transcended its aviation roots to become a powerful pop-culture reference—spotted on the wrists of explorers, Hollywood icons, and countless global travellers. By 2005, the Pepsi variant had solidified its position among the most iconic and collectible versions of the 16710.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Though created for pilots, the GMT-Master II reached a broader audience once it became clear that two-time-zone functionality was just as handy for frequent flyers, travelling executives, and watch enthusiasts who enjoyed the mechanical ingenuity. By 2005, the model already boasted an impressive track record in both pop culture and exploration. From NASA astronauts to corporate moguls, the GMT found its way onto wrists that sought to bridge global time zones with a simple turn of the bezel.

The Pepsi bezel holds particular cultural cachet, rooted in the watch’s original function and accentuated by decades of brand heritage. Whether it’s the vibrant colour scheme or the link to aviation’s golden age, Pepsi-GMT owners relish the blend of historical gravitas and playful visual flair.

Technical Highlights and Everyday Practicality

The 2005 GMT-Master II 16710 “Pepsi” offers a number of features that make it as practical now as it was during its production years:

1. Independent 12-Hour Hand

The signature hallmark of the GMT-Master II, the jump hour hand allows for effortless local-time adjustments—ideal for frequent travellers or those coordinating with colleagues in other time zones.

2. Solid End Link Oyster Bracelet

By 2005, Rolex commonly fitted solid end links to its sports watches, improving bracelet integrity and wear comfort. These end links also grant the watch a more substantial feel on the wrist.

3. 100-Metre Water Resistance

Although primarily an aviator’s watch, the GMT-Master II maintains the Oyster case pedigree—capable of submerging to 100 metres if needed. This gives owners peace of mind for daily activities, from the office to short dips in the pool.

4. Sapphire Crystal

A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal safeguards the dial and date window (complete with the famous Cyclops lens), ensuring long-term durability.

Together, these elements underscore Rolex’s timeless formula: create a technically proficient watch that stands up to real-world wear and showcases a refined aesthetic.

Owning and Maintaining a 2005 GMT-Master II 16710

Even though the 16710 design is inherently tough, regular maintenance remains essential for preserving both performance and condition. A routine service every 4–5 years keeps the Calibre 3185 movement lubricated and accurate. Gasket checks should be part of this service, as water resistance depends on proper sealing of the crown, tube, and case back.

Bracelet longevity is another consideration. While solid end links reduce the chances of stretch, cleaning and occasional inspection can safeguard against unnecessary wear. These steps ensure that your 2005 GMT-Master II remains a dependable travel companion and retains its collector allure for decades to come.

Secure This Coveted Timepiece Before It’s Gone

A 2005 Rolex GMT-Master II 16710 “Pepsi” embodies the final chapters of a storied model’s evolution. By pairing a no-lug-holes case and modern lume with the nostalgic Pepsi bezel, this reference merges the best of both worlds—classic charm and contemporary reliability. As neo-vintage watches gain traction among discerning collectors, the 16710 stands tall as one of Rolex’s most versatile and beloved sports models.

Opportunities to acquire a 2005 GMT-Master II in exceptional condition are becoming rarer. With the heritage of the GMT-Master brand, the timeless colour scheme, and the robust engineering that made Rolex a household name, this watch offers far more than simple timekeeping: it’s a passport to the legacy of global aviation, worn comfortably on the wrist. Whether you’re a frequent flyer seeking functional elegance or a connoisseur of iconic designs, the 16710 Pepsi is primed to impress—both now and for generations to come.

• Case and bracelet in very good condition, very sharp lugs, with factory chamfers still visible.
• Bracelet in great condition, minimal wear and stretch.

Dial and hands are flawless.