The GMT-Master, also known as the “Pepsi” model, is arguably the most famous red and blue Rolex watch in existence. Though it has no actual connection to the storied beverage brand, collectors and connoisseurs have been referring to the watch by this affectionate nickname for decades.
But why create a red and blue Rolex in the first place? If the colors have nothing to do with the soda brand, were they chosen at random? Rolex is a company that does not have a history of leaving things up to chance, so no, the colors were most certainly not chosen at random. So what was the thought process of utilizing a color scheme so well associated with another company?
In order to fully answer these questions, we will have to take a look at the beginning of another industry that has always been intertwined with the horological community – commercial aviation. The history of this watch is best understood in the context of the formative years of this particular service.
The Early Years of Commercial Aviation
In the early 1950’s, commercial aviation was truly beginning to come into its own on both a national and international scale. People would often dress in suits and dresses to board a flight, and flying was considered an activity that was classy and exciting.
This increased interest in air travel meant that pilots were now dealing with a novel problem. They needed to be able to tell the time in multiple time zones while only using one watch. Thus, the earliest pilot’s watches were created to remedy this exact problem.
Rolex Begins Crafting Pilot’s Watches
Rolex was somewhat late in terms of creating pilot watches, as they would not do so until 1955, with the introduction of the original GMT-Master. They created this watch at the behest of Pan American, which was one of the most prominent airlines of that era.
The company wanted to ensure that their pilots would have access to reliable pilot’s watches that would allow them to quickly ascertain the information they needed in real-time. Rolex was already a well-established watchmaker by this point, so it stands to reason that they would consult them to produce these watches. Rolex, never being the type to back away from a challenge, was happy to assist Pan Am in their endeavor.
The Introduction of the Red and Blue Rolex
So while this history does explain how the watch came to be in the first place, there is still one remaining question to answer – why create a red and blue Rolex in the first place? In order to actually answer this question, you would have to know a bit about aviation history, and how commercial flights functioned at this time.
During this era, the cockpits would have red lights in them during nighttime flights. This is because it is easier to see the instrument panel under a red light. When placed under a red light, the blue part of the bezel appears to be black, which creates a strong color contrast. Thus, the combination of red and blue would be the easiest to read during a night flight. While some people may think it has to do with soft drinks, this is the actual reason why we have a red and blue Rolex today.
What Separates Rubber B From Other Watch Straps?
Rubber B produces custom rubber watch bands for timepieces from a variety of leading global watchmakers, including Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Patek Philippe, and Panerai, as well as several others. Their complete product catalog features straps in a plethora of different colors, textures, and styles, and each one of its watch bands is made solely from 100% vulcanized rubber.
Rubber B was the first company ever to invent rubber straps for Rolex watches. In June 2011, Rubber B introduced never-seen-before integrated rubber straps for specific Rolex watch models, such as the Daytona and the Submariner. Rubber B revolutionized the luxury watch industry by providing the only alternative to the original Rolex bracelet, one that seamlessly fits the watch case and integrates with the Rolex clasp. All Rubber B straps are 100% Swiss-made by leaders in the luxury horology industry.
No fillers or additives are used in Rubber B’s watch straps, and each strap is non-toxic and non-allergenic, as well as being FDA and BVGG compliant. Rubber B also offers both domestic and international shipping to its clients based on their current location.
Do You Need a Custom Rubber Watch Band For Your Luxury Watch? Visit Rubber B Today
For those who would like to learn more about Rubber B’s complete list of products, shipping policies, and pricing, or have questions about their custom rubber watch straps, please visit the Rubber B website today for more information. One of their valued team members will be happy to answer any inquiries promptly.
Follow Us on Instagram
