Luxury Watch Model Rolex Recognized under Various Nicknames: 'Pepsi', 'Kermit', or 'Panda' - Due to their specific designs, these watches are known as Pepsi, Kermit, and Panda.
Rolex watches, the epitome of luxury and precision, are often referred to by names other than those listed in the brand's catalog. These unofficial nicknames, such as "Pepsi," "Hulk," "Panda," and "Batman," have become a shared language among collectors and enthusiasts, making it easier to identify and discuss iconic Rolex models.
The nickname "Pepsi" is given to GMT-Master models featuring a red and blue bezel, reminiscent of the colors of the Pepsi soda logo. This moniker arose because of the striking, dual-color bezel that was originally a nod to Pan Am airline colors, as the watch model was created for pilots in the 1950s.
The "Hulk" nickname is used for a Submariner model with a green bezel and a green dial, evoking the comic book character’s color and strength. The "Panda" description applies to watches that have a white dial with contrasting black subdials, resembling the face of a panda bear, particularly chronographs like certain Daytona models.
The "Batman" nickname refers to GMT-Master watches featuring a blue and black bezel, which collectors associated with the colors related to the superhero Batman’s costume.
These nicknames help collectors and enthusiasts quickly recognize and communicate about Rolex models without referring to complicated model numbers. They also signify the cultural and stylistic identity each watch has taken on within the community, sometimes reflecting pop culture or historical references alongside design features.
However, the use of unofficial nicknames can cause confusion, as different collectors may have varying interpretations of the same nickname. Watchmakers prefer to work with the official designations of Rolex watches.
Rolex reference numbers, a jumble of numbers and letters, can be impractical for some enthusiasts. These numbers, however, provide valuable information about the watch's specifications. The last number in a Rolex reference number refers to the material, while the second-to-last digit indicates the bezel. Suffixes like BLRO (bleu rouge, or blue red) and VTNR (vert noir, or green black) are abbreviations for French colors, gemstones, and other watch elements.
The Rolex Daytona, always the chronograph, is subject to popular nicknames. One such nickname, "Kermit," is associated with a specific Rolex watch. The Rolex Submariner, a diver's watch, also has its own nicknames, including "Pepsi" and "Batman."
The Rolex GMT-Master offers multiple time zones, making it a popular choice among travellers. The Rolex Datejust, a watch with a date feature, is another classic model in the Rolex collection.
In the gallery, you will find images of Rolex watches associated with popular nicknames, as well as information about the origins of these nicknames. This gallery serves as a visual guide to the cultural and stylistic identity that these iconic watches have taken on within the community.
- Due to the striking, dual-color bezel reminiscent of the Pepsi soda logo, some collectors have given the Rolex GMT-Master models with a red and blue bezel the unofficial nickname "Pepsi."
- The Rolex Submariner, a watch associated with the diver's lifestyle, also has unofficial nicknames such as "Pepsi" and "Batman," which reflect the cultural and stylistic identity each model has acquired within the community, often inspired by pop culture references.
