No two watches in the Rolex catalog generate as much passionate debate as the GMT-Master II Pepsi (ref. 126710BLRO) and the Batman (ref. 126710BLNR). The Pepsi’s red-and-blue bezel pays homage to the original 1955 GMT-Master, while the Batman’s black-and-blue bezel represents a modern icon in its own right. Both have been replicated by super clone factories with remarkable success, but each presents unique challenges. This guide will help you decide which one deserves your wrist.
A Tale of Two Bezel Colors
The bezel insert is the defining feature of any GMT-Master II, and it’s also the most difficult element to replicate accurately. The color gradients, the transition points, and the specific hues used by Rolex are proprietary and incredibly hard to match.
The Pepsi (126710BLRO)
The red and blue ceramic bezel is a two-piece construction on the genuine watch: the bottom half is blue ceramic, the top half is red ceramic, fused together under high pressure and temperature. The result is a seamless color transition at the 18-minute mark. The red should be a deep, rich crimson (not too bright, not too dark), and the blue should be a medium navy. The numerals and graduations are platinum-plated. Replicating this dual-color ceramic insert is extraordinarily difficult. Many factories get the red slightly wrong—too pink, too orange, or too dark.
The Batman (126710BLNR)
The black and blue bezel is technically simpler to replicate because black is a forgiving base color. The blue half occupies the lower portion of the bezel, transitioning at the 18-minute mark. The blue should be a distinctive shade—not as dark as navy but darker than royal blue—that contrasts clearly with the black. The Batman bezel was introduced in 2013 and has been refined by Rolex over multiple iterations. Early super clone attempts had the blue too light; modern versions have largely corrected this.
| Feature | Pepsi (BLRO) | Batman (BLNR) |
|---|---|---|
| Bezel Colors | Red (upper) / Blue (lower) | Black (upper) / Blue (lower) |
| Replication Difficulty | Very High (red is hard to match) | Moderate (black is forgiving) |
| Best Factory (2026) | Clean Factory V3 | Clean Factory |
| Bezel Color Accuracy | ~92% of gen | ~96% of gen |
| Case Reference | 126710BLRO | 126710BLNR |
| Price (super clone) | $508 – $598 | $498 – $588 |
| Common Tell | Red hue slightly off | Blue/black transition border |
Clean Factory GMT-Master II Super Clones
Clean Factory produces the best GMT-Master II super clones currently available. Their V3 Pepsi and current Batman are reference-grade replicas that capture the distinctive GMT case shape and the iconic bezel design more faithfully than any competitor.
Case and Crystal
Clean’s GMT case is excellent. The 40mm case (or 40.5mm, depending on how you measure) has the correct proportions with properly shaped crown guards and lugs. The crystal height is a critical detail on the GMT-Master II—it sits slightly higher than on the Submariner to accommodate the thicker bezel assembly. Clean gets this right, with the crystal protruding just the right amount above the bezel. The cyclops is correctly positioned and provides proper magnification.
The Bezel Insert
This is where the Pepsi and Batman diverge. Clean’s Batman bezel is extremely accurate: the black portion is deep and even, the blue has the correct navy cast, and the transition at 18 minutes is clean. The platinum-plated numerals are sharp and have good depth.
Clean’s Pepsi bezel has been through three iterations (V1, V2, V3). The V3 bezel, released in early 2025, finally got the red right. Early versions had a red that was slightly too orange or too bright. The V3 red is deeper and more crimson-like, much closer to the genuine article. The blue half is excellent. The transition line at 18 minutes is clean, though not quite as seamless as the genuine two-piece ceramic construction.
Movement: The VR3186 and VR3285
Clean uses their VR3186 movement (clone of Rolex calibre 3186) for GMT models. More recent production has shifted toward the VR3285 (clone of Rolex calibre 3285) to match the genuine 126710 generation. Both movements are reliable, with smooth winding and accurate timekeeping. The GMT function operates correctly: the 24-hour hand moves independently of the main hour hand, allowing true traveler GMT functionality. The date change is smooth, and the power reserve is approximately 50-55 hours in practice.
VSF GMT Options
VSF has recently entered the GMT-Master II market with competitive offerings. Their crystal is superior to Clean’s (as expected from VSF), with exceptional clarity and perfect cyclops performance. However, VSF’s case shape on the GMT is not quite at Clean’s level—the crown guards are slightly thicker and the lug profile is less accurate. VSF also uses a different bezel construction that some owners report has a slightly different feel when rotating. For the GMT specifically, Clean remains the recommended choice.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between Pepsi and Batman is deeply personal. Here are some considerations:
- Choose the Pepsi if: You want the ultimate icon. The red-and-blue bezel is the original GMT color combination and has an unmatched history. It’s more eye-catching and recognizable. The Pepsi says you know watches.
- Choose the Batman if: You want a more versatile, wearable watch. The black-and-blue bezel pairs with more outfit colors and flies under the radar better. The Batman is the more conservative choice and is slightly more accurate as a super clone due to the simpler bezel replication.
- Consider the “Batgirl” (126710BLNR-0002): Released in 2023, this version comes on a Jubilee bracelet instead of Oyster. If you prefer the Jubilee look, seek out a Clean Factory Batgirl.
Bracelet Options: Oyster vs Jubilee
The GMT-Master II is available on both Oyster and Jubilee bracelets, depending on the specific reference. The Pepsi typically comes on Jubilee, while the Batman is available on both Oyster and Jubilee (Batgirl). Clean Factory replicates both bracelets well. The Jubilee has the correct five-piece link construction with polished center links. The Oyster has brushed outer links with polished center links. Both have the Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm extension. The SEL fitment on Clean’s GMT bracelets is excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which GMT super clone is more accurate to genuine?
The Batman (BLNR) is slightly more accurate because the black portion of the bezel is easier to replicate. The Pepsi’s red is still a tiny shade off from genuine, even on the V3 bezel.
Does the GMT function work on these replicas?
Yes. The VR3186 and VR3285 movements feature a true GMT function where the 24-hour hand is independently adjustable. This is a genuine traveler GMT, not a “caller” GMT that only adjusts the main hour hand.
How does the Clean Factory Pepsi bezel compare to genuine?
Clean V3 Pepsi achieves approximately 90-92% of the genuine bezel appearance. The red is now close but not 100% identical. The blue is excellent. The transition line is good but not as seamless as gen.
Can I buy both bezel inserts and swap them?
Yes. Clean Factory bezel inserts are available separately from some parts dealers. You can buy both a Pepsi and Batman insert and swap them on the same watch base. This is a popular mod among GMT enthusiasts.
Which holds value better: Pepsi or Batman super clone?
The Pepsi typically commands a $20-$40 premium over the Batman on the secondary replica market due to higher demand and the more complex bezel replication. Both hold value well compared to other super clones.
Conclusion
The Pepsi and Batman GMT-Master II super clones from Clean Factory are two of the finest replicas money can buy. The Pepsi carries the weight of horological history on its bezel, while the Batman offers a modern sophistication that pairs with any occasion. Both have been replicated with extraordinary care by Clean Factory, and both will serve you faithfully as daily-wear travel companions. The choice ultimately comes down to your wrist and your soul.
Browse our GMT-Master II collection to find your perfect Pepsi or Batman.