{"id":27232,"date":"2025-07-16T09:52:25","date_gmt":"2025-07-16T09:52:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.swisswatchexpo.com\/thewatchclub\/?p=27232"},"modified":"2025-07-19T11:10:28","modified_gmt":"2025-07-19T11:10:28","slug":"rolex-watch-nicknames-ultimate-guide-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.swisswatchexpo.com\/thewatchclub\/2025\/07\/16\/rolex-watch-nicknames-ultimate-guide-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Ultimate Guide to Rolex Watch Nicknames (2025 Edition)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Rolex. The name itself brings to mind images of luxury, precision, and timeless style. But for true watch enthusiasts, there’s a second, more colorful language\u2014a vibrant, unofficial dictionary of Rolex<\/a> nicknames that captures the spirit of these legendary timepieces.<\/p>\n

From the iconic “Pepsi” to the mighty “Hulk,” these names are more than just slang.\u00a0They represent the deep connection collectors feel with their watches, inspired by unique colorways, design details, or even blockbuster movie moments.\u00a0As we navigate 2025, this collector’s lexicon is more relevant than ever, driving conversations and defining what’s desirable.<\/p>\n

If you’ve ever been curious why a GMT-Master II is called a “Batman,” or what makes a Daytona a \u201cPaul Newman\u201d, you’re in the right place. This is your definitive 2025 guide to Rolex watch nicknames.<\/p>\n

\"Three<\/a>
A vibrant trio of Rolex GMT-Master IIs.<\/strong> From left to right: the “Sprite,” “Root Beer,” and “Pepsi” showcase the iconic bi-color bezels that define the collection.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n


\nWhy Do Rolexes Have Nicknames?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

It’s a phenomenon unique to the world of high-end watches.\u00a0While other brands have model numbers, Rolexes become known by their aliases.\u00a0This tradition comes from a few key factors:<\/p>\n

Distinctive Visuals:<\/strong>\u00a0Many nicknames are born from a watch’s unique bezel colors, dial patterns, or the shape of its components.<\/p>\n

Easy Recognition:<\/strong>\u00a0Official reference numbers can be long and complicated; nicknames are a simple and memorable shorthand.<\/p>\n

Community & Culture:<\/strong>\u00a0Using these terms builds a sense of shared knowledge and community among watch lovers.<\/p>\n

Pop Culture Fame:<\/strong>\u00a0A watch can earn a nickname from its appearance in a famous film or on the wrist of a celebrity.<\/p>\n

\n


\nThe Greats: Decoding the Most Famous Rolex Nicknames in 2025<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Here\u2019s a look at the most recognized Rolex nicknames, with insights into their origins and current status.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

The GMT-Master Family: A World of Color<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

The GMT-Master line is a goldmine for nicknames, thanks to its iconic two-color bezels designed to help pilots track day and night across time zones.<\/p>\n

\"Rolex<\/a>
The classic “Pepsi” GMT-Master II (Ref. 16710).<\/strong> This iconic timepiece, featuring the instantly recognizable red and blue aluminum bezel, embodies the spirit of global travel.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Pepsi”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0The “Pepsi” is the universally recognized nickname for any Rolex GMT-Master or GMT-Master II model that features the signature blue and red bi-color bezel. This bezel is marked with a 24-hour scale, where the red half represents daytime hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and the blue half represents nighttime hours, allowing for easy at-a-glance differentiation of a second time zone.<\/p>\n

Over its history, the “Pepsi” bezel has been crafted from Bakelite, aluminum, and most recently, a highly durable ceramic known as Cerachrom. Its most notable references are the longest running Ref. 1675 (from 1959-1980) and the Ref. 116719BLRO, which marked its triumphant return with a Cerachrom bezel.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0The story of the “Pepsi” begins with the birth of the jet age. In 1955, Rolex developed the original GMT-Master (ref. 6542) in collaboration with Pan American World Airways. The airline needed a watch for its pilots on long-haul international routes that could simultaneously track their local time and a second time zone, typically Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Rolex delivered with a watch featuring a rotating 24-hour bezel in the now-famous blue and red color scheme for clear day\/night indication.<\/p>\n

The nickname “Pepsi” was later coined by collectors due to the bezel’s resemblance to the soda company’s logo. From its origins as a purpose-built tool for aviators, the “Pepsi” has evolved into one of the most famous and sought-after watch designs in history.
\n<><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Two<\/a>
The dynamic duo: “Batman” and “Batgirl” GMT-Master II.<\/strong> The iconic black and blue bezel is showcased on both the sporty Oyster and elegant Jubilee bracelets.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Batman” & “Batgirl”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What they are:<\/strong>\u00a0A GMT-Master II with a black and blue ceramic bezel.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0Unveiled in 2013, the “Batman” was the first Rolex to feature a two-color ceramic bezel in blue and black.\u00a0The original came on a sporty, three-link Oyster bracelet (Ref. 116710BLNR).<\/p>\n

In 2019, an updated version was released exclusively on the dressier five-link Jubilee bracelet, earning the nickname “Batgirl” (Ref. 126710BLNR). Rolex later re-introduced the “Batman” on the Oyster bracelet due to popular demand, and both models are highly sought after in 2025.
\n<><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Two<\/a>
The sophisticated “Bruce Wayne” GMT-Master II.<\/strong> Its black and grey bezel offers a more understated yet equally compelling aesthetic, available on both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Bruce Wayne”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0A GMT-Master II with a sophisticated black and grey bezel (Ref. 126710GRNR). It is available with both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0This nickname emerged instantly when the watch was revealed in 2024.\u00a0The more subdued and elegant color scheme was seen as the perfect civilian alter ego to the vibrant “Batman,” hence “Bruce Wayne.”\u00a0It’s a versatile and popular new addition for 2025.
\n<><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Close-up<\/a>
The distinctive “Sprite” GMT-Master II.<\/strong> Rolex’s first left-handed watch, its black and green bezel makes it an instant modern classic.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Sprite”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0A GMT-Master II with a green and black bezel and a left-handed crown (Ref. 126720VTNR). It is available with both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0Released in 2022, this watch was an instant sensation.\u00a0Not only did the green and black colors evoke the “Sprite” branding, but it was also Rolex’s first-ever “destro” (left-handed) watch.\u00a0Its unique design continues to make it a hot commodity in 2025.
\n<><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Rolex<\/a>
The vintage “Coke” GMT-Master II.<\/strong> This Ref. 16760, affectionately known as the “Fat Lady” for its robust case, was the first GMT-Master II model.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Coke”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0A GMT-Master II with a red and black bezel and an Oyster bracelet.\u00a0The two main Rolex references associated with the “Coke” are the 16760 (also known as the “Fat Lady”) and the 16710.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0The “Coke” was introduced in 1982 with the first-ever GMT-Master II, and the name was a direct nod to Coca-Cola’s colors.\u00a0Although it was discontinued around 2007, rumors of a modern ceramic “Coke” persist.\u00a0As of 2025, it has not been re-released, making vintage models highly prized.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Rolex<\/a>
The luxurious “Root Beer” GMT-Master II.<\/strong> This Everose Rolesor model with its distinctive black and brown Cerachrom bezel offers a sophisticated and warm aesthetic.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Root Beer”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0A GMT-Master with a brown and gold or brown and black bezel. Several references are associated with this nickname, including the 1675\/3, 16753, 16713, 126715CHNR, and 126711CHNR.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0The original “Root Beer” from the 1970s featured a warm, brown-and-gold colorway that resembled the soft drink.<\/p>\n

After a period of absence, Rolex spectacularly revived the “Root Beer” in 2018, ushering it into the modern era of watchmaking. This new generation of “Root Beer” GMT-Master II models, one made in full 18k Everose and another in two-tone Oystersteel and Everose, brought with it a host of contemporary upgrades: a solid Oyster case and bracelet, and a Cerachrom bezel, resulting in a refined, even more luxurious aesthetic.<\/p>\n

\n


\nThe Submariner Family: Dive into the Icons<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Rolex’s legendary dive watch has its own collection of beloved nicknames, often inspired by color.<\/p>\n

\"Three<\/a>
The evolving green Submariner.<\/strong> This image showcases variations of the green bezel Submariner, from the original aluminum “Kermit” to the modern ceramic “Starbucks.”<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Kermit” & “Starbucks”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What they are:<\/strong>\u00a0Submariners with a green bezel and black dial.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0The original “Kermit” (Ref. 16610LV) was released in 2003 for the Submariner’s 50th anniversary and featured a bright green aluminum bezel. It marked the first time that a green colored bezel was used on Rolex watches.<\/p>\n

After it was discontinued, Rolex introduced a new version in 2020 with a darker, ceramic green bezel (Ref. 126610LV) and a larger 41mm case. Collectors have nicknamed this modern successor the “Starbucks” for its resemblance to the coffee giant’s corporate colors.<\/p>\n

The original “Kermit” is often remembered for its pioneering role, introducing a flash of color to the no-nonsense Submariner line and pairing it with the unique “Maxi” dial on a classic case. The “Starbucks,” by contrast, integrates this popular colorway into the latest generation of Submariner technology and design philosophy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Hulk”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0A Submariner with both a green ceramic bezel and a green sunburst dial.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0Unveiled in 2010, the “Hulk” (Ref. 116610LV) earned its name for its powerful, all-green appearance.\u00a0Its unique green-on-green dial and bezel made it a legend.\u00a0Discontinued in 2020, its value on the secondary market has soared, and it remains one of the most coveted modern Submariners.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Rolex<\/a>
The vibrant “Cookie Monster” Submariner.<\/strong> This 18k white gold model features a striking blue bezel against a black dial, earning its playful nickname.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Smurf” & “Cookie Monster”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What they are:<\/strong>\u00a0White gold Submariners with blue bezels.<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0The “Smurf” (Ref. 116619LB) was a solid white gold Submariner with a blue bezel and matching blue dial, introduced in 2008.\u00a0In 2020, it was replaced by the “Cookie Monster” (Ref. 126619LB), which features the same vibrant blue bezel but contrasts it with a black dial.\u00a0The “Cookie Monster” has quickly become a modern classic, celebrated for its bold look and luxurious feel.<\/p>\n

The “Smurf” was notable for its bright, monochromatic blue appearance, with its flat blue dial perfectly matching its Cerachrom bezel, earning it its playful cartoon nickname. The transition to the “Cookie Monster” in 2020 was more than just a dial swap; it represented a deliberate design shift towards higher contrast and aligned with the launch of the updated 41mm Submariner case and the new-generation Calibre 3235 movement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Two-tone<\/a>
The iconic “Bluesy” Submariner.<\/strong> This two-tone model with its striking blue dial and bezel is a luxurious twist on the classic diver.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“Bluesy”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong>\u00a0The nickname refers specifically to any Submariner Date model featuring a blue bezel, a blue dial, and a two-tone combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, also known as “Yellow Rolesor.”<\/p>\n

The Story:<\/strong>\u00a0A mainstay since the late 1980s, the “Bluesy” is a flashy, luxurious take on the classic dive watch.\u00a0This iconic and eye-catching configuration has evolved over the years, with several distinct reference numbers marking significant updates in materials, movement, and design. The original Bluesy Ref. 16803 and 16613 had aluminum insert bezels, while the modern Ref. 16613LB and 126613LB feature Cerachrom bezels.<\/p>\n

The Rolex Submariner Bluesy perfectly balances tool-watch functionality with a more opulent style and remains incredibly popular in 2025.<\/p>\n

\n


\nThe Daytona Family: The Champions’ Chronographs<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

The Daytona is Rolex’s iconic racing chronograph, with nicknames often tied to celebrity owners or rare dial configurations.<\/p>\n

“Paul Newman”<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

What it is:<\/strong> A “Paul Newman” is a specific version of the vintage, manual-wind Rolex Daytona that features a unique “exotic” dial. Its defining characteristics are the Art Deco-style font used for the numerals in the subdials, the small squares at the end of the subdial hash marks, and often a third color (red) for the outer seconds track. These dials were available in various color combinations on several Daytona references, including the 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264, and 6265<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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We thank @luxury<\/a> for their coverage of last night’s historic sale: https:\/\/t.co\/A5u3FRBh7T<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/jqnyBo1W2e<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 PHILLIPS Watches (@phillipswatches) October 27, 2017<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n