The Rolex Root Beer is one of the most distinctive and stylish watches in the Rolex lineup, combining vintage aesthetics with modern innovation. This model, part of the GMT-Master II collection, has earned a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts for its unique two-tone design, historical significance, and impressive functionality.
Whether you appreciate its retro appeal or its advanced watchmaking technology, the Rolex Root Beer stands out as a perfect blend of past and present.
The Origins of the Rolex Root Beer
The Rolex Root Beer first appeared in the 1960s as part of the GMT-Master series. Designed as a pilot’s watch, the GMT-Master was created for Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) to help pilots keep track of multiple time zones. While most early GMT-Master models featured the classic blue and red “Pepsi” bezel, Rolex introduced a brown and gold color scheme that soon earned the nickname “Root Beer” due to its resemblance to the popular soda.
Early versions of the Rolex Root Beer, such as the Reference 1675 and later Reference 16753, featured a two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold case, a brown bezel, and a matching brown dial with gold accents. These vintage models became highly desirable, not only for their distinct aesthetic but also for their connection to celebrities like Clint Eastwood, who was frequently seen wearing one.
The Rolex Root Beer Revival
For years, vintage Rolex Root Beer models were a collector’s secret—appreciated for their nostalgic charm but often overshadowed by the more famous Pepsi and Coke bezel GMT-Master variations. However, in 2018, Rolex revived the Root Beer colorway with the introduction of the GMT-Master II Reference 126711CHNR. This model retained the signature brown and gold bezel but introduced several modern enhancements that brought it into the 21st century.
The updated Rolex Root Beer features a two-tone “Rolesor” combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold, Rolex’s proprietary rose gold alloy. The bi-color Cerachrom bezel, crafted from scratch-resistant ceramic, showcases a rich brown and black combination, maintaining the Root Beer aesthetic while offering superior durability. The Everose gold elements on the case, bracelet, and dial give the watch a warm, luxurious feel that blends vintage inspiration with contemporary refinement.
Design and Features That Stand Out
One of the most appealing aspects of the Rolex Root Beer is its striking design. The combination of black and brown on the bezel creates a sophisticated yet bold contrast, while the gold numerals provide a refined touch. The dial, available in black, features Everose gold hour markers and hands, coated with Rolex’s signature Chromalight luminescent material for enhanced readability in low-light conditions.
The watch is fitted with Rolex’s iconic Oyster bracelet, available in both the traditional two-tone Rolesor and the luxurious full Everose gold version (Reference 126715CHNR). The Oyster bracelet is not only visually stunning but also incredibly comfortable, featuring Rolex’s patented Easylink extension system that allows for quick adjustments to the bracelet length.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Performance
While the Rolex Root Beer is deeply rooted in vintage aesthetics, its technology is entirely modern. Powering the watch is the Rolex Caliber 3285, a state-of-the-art automatic movement that delivers exceptional precision, reliability, and efficiency. This movement offers:
- 70-hour power reserve, allowing wearers to switch watches without worrying about resetting the time.
- Superlative Chronometer certification, ensuring accuracy within -2/+2 seconds per day.
- Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, enhancing resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.
- Bidirectional winding and Rolex’s Chronergy escapement, improving overall energy efficiency.
The Rolex Root Beer as an Investment
Like many Rolex models, the Rolex Root Beer has proven to be a strong investment piece. The combination of limited production, high demand, and Rolex’s reputation for quality ensures that these watches retain and even appreciate over time.
Vintage models from the 1970s and 1980s, particularly the Reference 16753, have seen a steady rise in market value due to their rarity and classic appeal. Meanwhile, the modern iterations, such as the Reference 126711CHNR, are difficult to acquire at retail due to long waitlists, pushing secondary market prices well above the original retail cost.
For collectors and enthusiasts, investing in a Rolex Root Beer means owning a piece of horological history while also securing a timepiece that holds both aesthetic and financial appeal.
Why the Rolex Root Beer is the Perfect Blend of Vintage and Modern
The Rolex Root Beer is a rare example of a watch that successfully bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern luxury. Its iconic brown and gold color scheme pays homage to its past, while cutting-edge materials and technology ensure it remains a top-tier watch in today’s market.
Whether you’re drawn to its history, its unique color combination, or its robust functionality, the Rolex Root Beer offers something for every watch enthusiast. It is a timepiece that tells a story of innovation, nostalgia, and timeless style—a true classic reimagined for the modern era.
For collectors, adding a Rolex Root Beer to a watch collection is more than just an acquisition; it is an investment in a piece of Rolex heritage that will continue to captivate watch lovers for generations to come.
