Rolex “Root Beer”: A classic with a unique design

Oct 14, 2025by Sabine Meding

First presented at Baselworld 2018, the GMT-Master II model nicknamed "Root Beer" is one of Rolex's greatest classics. The men's watch, with the reference number 126711CHNR, is considered the successor to the 16753, popular in the 1960s and the first Rolex to bear the "Root Beer" moniker. In both cases, the names are based on the special coloring of the bezel, reminiscent of the spicy soft drink. Below, we'll take a closer look at the modern "Root Beer" Rolex and examine its distinctive features.

The most important things in brief

This article discusses the following points about the Rolex GMT-Master II (Reference No. 126711CHNR) in more detail:

  • Material and design: The Rolex The GMT-Master II "Root Beer" is made of Everose Rolesor, a combination of stainless steel and rose gold. The dial and black-brown index insert are made of Cerachrom, a patented ceramic material.

  • Movement and functions: The movement that powers the Rolex GMT-Master II, reference number 126711CHNR, is an automatic in-house caliber with a 70-hour power reserve. This precise Rolex automatic movement not only moves the hour, minute, and second hands, but also powers a date display and enables a GMT function.

  • Purchase and costs: If you'd like to purchase a GMT-Master II "Root Beer," you can do so through the manufacturer, a Rolex dealer, or the secondary market. According to the Rolex price list, the GMT model costs €18,100; on the secondary market, watch prices can be several thousand euros higher.

Facts and figures: The Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" at a glance

For those who would like a quick overview of the most important information about the Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer," we have compiled a brief summary:

Reference no.

126711CHNR

Price (list)

18,100 euros

Housing

stainless steel (Oystersteel)

bracelet

Rolesor Everose (Oystersteel and Everose gold)

bezel

Cerachrom ceramic in black and brown

Dial

Black

caliber

3285 (automatic movement)

Power reserve

70 hours

Functions

Date, two time zones

Materials: Oystersteel and Everose gold merge to create Rolesor Everose

The Rolex brand is known for crafting each watch from high-quality raw materials and handling them with the utmost care. The Rolex GMT-Master II, Ref. 126711CHNR, utilizes two of the manufacturer's special alloys: Oystersteel and Everose gold. The former is a robust, durable, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel, while the latter is an 18-karat rose gold alloy with a platinum component.

Rolex calls the combination of Oystersteel and Everose gold "Rolesor Everose." In the case of the Rolex GMT-Master II "Rootbeer," the watch case is made of steel, while the Triplock winding crown and the rotating bezel of the index disc are in rose gold. The bracelet features a two-tone design, combining steel and rose gold elements. Together with the rose gold edging of the Chromalight indices and hands, this creates a vibrant overall look with a partly satin-brushed, partly polished finish.

Design: The main features of Rolex's "Rootbeer Look"

The Rolex GMT-Master II with reference number 126711CHNR can be recognized at first glance by these features:

  • Bicolor design with steel and rose gold

  • Monochrome, deep black dial

  • Two-tone ceramic bezel in black and brown

  • Large, line- and dot-shaped indices with luminous material

  • Luminous coating on hour, minute and second hands

  • Cyclops magnifying glass for enlarging the date display

  • Large-framed numbering on the bezel

  • Serrated rotating ring

  • Three-row Oyster bracelet (stainless steel-rose gold-stainless steel)

As with many other Rolex models, the "Root Beer" nickname is derived from its color scheme, particularly the black and brown bezel. Anyone interested in getting a closer look at this special Rolex GMT-Master II or discovering other GMT timepieces from the brand should browse the GMT-Master II watches available at HORANDO.

Caliber and functions of the Rolex GMT-Master II "Rootbeer"

Which movement is installed in the GMT-Master II model with the ref. 126711CHNR? The answer: Beneath the stylish two-tone case of the Rolex GMT-Master II luxury watch lies the Perpetual Caliber 3285. This self-winding movement boasts the highest precision and accuracy—just as you'd expect from a Rolex in-house movement.

The movement, which displays the time, the date, and the GMT function, is chronometer-certified and boasts a 70-hour power reserve. Another plus: Thanks to a modern sealing system with a Triplock crown, the luxury caliber of the 126711CHNR model is water-resistant to depths of 100 meters.

Style and comfort: The Rolex Oyster bracelet in bicolor design

In a high-quality luxury watch, all components—including the bracelet—must be perfectly coordinated. Only then can a harmonious work of art be created, whose superior quality is unmistakably evident. The Rolex GMT-Master II with reference 126711CHNR is, of course, no exception.

For the GMT-Master II "Root Beer" watch, Rolex uses a three-row Oyster bracelet with polished and satin-finished elements in steel and rose gold. A row of links in rose gold shines in the center, with a row of stainless steel links on either side. By crafting the bracelet from the two materials also used to make the watch case, the GMT timepiece appears to the observer as a harmonious whole whose individual parts belong together inextricably.

Naturally, the bracelet with its Oysterlock safety clasp not only perfectly complements the model but also offers exceptional comfort. The finely crafted links smoothly follow the shape of the wrist, making the Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" an accessory that can be worn every day without ever becoming a nuisance.

Availability, waiting times, and price of the Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" (Ref. 126711CHNR)

The Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" with the reference number 126711CHNR enjoys great popularity, but tends to be more readily available than comparable models from the brand. It's generally possible to purchase such a watch directly from the manufacturer or through a Rolex dealer in Germany. This way, you can be certain of the authenticity of the Rolex GMT-Master II, but you may also need to be patient. After all, it's well known that purchasing a Rolex often involves a certain waiting period.

Alternatively, new and well-preserved Rolex "Root Beer" watches are constantly being offered on the secondary market. With a bit of luck, you might find an attractive offer there, saving you the wait. However, keep in mind that prices on the secondary market are generally somewhat higher than the list price. Instead of the manufacturer's suggested price of €18,100, you'll pay an average of between €19,000 and €25,000 for a Rolex GMT-Master II (reference no. 126711CHNR) in good condition.

Conclusion: Rolex "Root Beer" - GMT-Master II with a special look

Nicknamed "Root Beer" due to the black and brown color of its Cerachrom dial, the Rolex GMT-Master II, reference no. 126711CHNR, boasts a striking yet utterly stylish exterior. Rolex combines a two-tone ceramic bezel with a two-tone steel and rose gold case and bracelet for this luxurious timepiece. The result is an extraordinary mix of colors and materials, yet beautifully harmonizing and exuding an elegant vibrancy.

FAQ

What is the reference number of the Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer"?

The Rolex “Root Beer” has the reference number. 126711CHNR.

Is the Rolex GMT-Master II waterproof?

Yes, the Rolex GMT-Master II luxury watches are water resistant to a depth of 100 meters.

Why is the GMT-Master II Ref. 126711CHNR nicknamed "Root Beer"?

This nickname was given to the watch because of the color of its ceramic bezel, which is reminiscent of root beer.

How much does the Rolex "Root Beer" GMT watch cost?

The Rolex "Root Beer" with the ref. 126711CHNR is listed at Rolex for 18,100 euros.

Where can you buy the Rolex "Root Beer" in Germany?

Interested buyers can choose whether they want to purchase the Rolex GMT-Master II through a specialist retailer in Germany or on the secondary market. Specialist retailers offer the models at list price, but they may not be immediately available. If you buy the Rolex GMT-Master II on the secondary market, you can expect a slightly higher purchase price, but you can often own the luxury watch sooner.

What should you look for when buying a Rolex GMT-Master II luxury watch?

When purchasing a luxury watch like the Rolex GMT-Master II with reference number 126711CHNR, one thing is paramount: authenticity. Therefore, we recommend purchasing such high-quality watches from reputable, renowned dealers in Germany. At HORANDO, experts verify the authenticity of each individual watch, ensuring that every Rolex "Root Beer" offered is an original. This important service is standard for us and, together with our numerous other HORANDO services, leads to a completely safe, convenient, and satisfying shopping experience.

Über den Autor

Authors | Sabine Meding

Authors | Sabine Meding

Sabine, originally from Bern, developed a passion for precise craftsmanship at an early age. As an art history student, she noticed how closely the development of watches was intertwined with the art and fashion of the time.

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