The Rolex GMT-Master II, a watch synonymous with global travel and horological excellence, enjoys a fervent following. Among its many iterations, the 2018 release of the reference 126710BLRO, affectionately nicknamed the "Pepsi" due to its blue and red Cerachrom bezel, holds a particularly coveted position. This article will delve into the price of this specific model in 2018 and beyond, exploring the factors influencing its value and providing a broader context within the Rolex GMT-Master II price landscape.
The 126710BLRO: A Game Changer
The 2018 release of the 126710BLRO marked a significant moment in Rolex history. This model replaced the previous generation GMT-Master II with a ceramic bezel insert featuring the iconic Pepsi colors. The updated reference also incorporated Rolex's Calibre 3285 movement, boasting superior accuracy, power reserve, and anti-magnetic properties. These improvements, coupled with the enduring appeal of the Pepsi bezel, propelled the 126710BLRO to immediate and sustained popularity, creating a significant demand that continues to this day. This demand directly impacts the price.
Determining the 2018 Price: A Difficult Task
Pinpointing the *exact* minimum price of the 126710BLRO in 2018 is challenging. Retail prices fluctuated slightly depending on the authorized dealer and location. However, the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) provided by Rolex served as a baseline. While this MSRP is not publicly available for all years and models, historical data from reputable sources and forums suggests that the 126710BLRO's price at launch was considerably lower than its current market value. This is a crucial point to understand when researching historical pricing. The significant price increase is a testament to its popularity and the subsequent demand exceeding supply.
Factors Affecting the 2018 Price and Current Market Value:
Several factors contribute to the difficulty in determining a precise 2018 price and the current market value:
* Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): Rolex's MSRP served as the starting point. However, access to precise historical MSRP data is limited. Authorized dealers often had waiting lists, and the MSRP might not have been strictly adhered to in all cases.
* Grey Market Influence: The grey market, where watches are bought and sold outside of authorized channels, significantly impacts pricing. Demand often outstripped supply, pushing prices above the MSRP, even in 2018.
* Regional Variations: Prices varied slightly across different regions due to factors such as taxes, import duties, and currency exchange rates.
* Condition: The condition of the watch—whether it's brand new, lightly used, or pre-owned—heavily influences its value. Minor scratches or imperfections can affect the price.
* Box and Papers: The inclusion of the original box and papers (warranty card and other documentation) significantly increases the value of a pre-owned Rolex.
* Current Market Demand: The current market demand for the 126710BLRO remains exceptionally high. This sustained demand, coupled with limited supply, continues to push prices upward.
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