Another Review of the GMT BLNR

[DaytonaSubmariner]

Hi all,
After waiting a while for the new GMT Pepsi and with much dismay that it only comes in white gold, I ended up pulling the trigger on the BLNR instead. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED the BLNR, but was really hoping to get a new Pepsi if they perfected the process for the ceramic coating.

This past Monday, I picked up my brand new BLNR. I sent a text to my local AD last week and asked if he had any available. For me, any time I need anything he has it. Yes, I'm a very good customer. This is my third Rolex that I've purchased from him (Hulk Sub and white SS Daytona) plus a ton a jewelry for my wife and family.
I was debating for a while about getting the new GMT because I had too many watches (yes, for me there is a possibility of too many watches LOL!). I like to wear them and get use out of them. Otherwise, I just think it's a waste.

I wasn't wearing an Explorer II Polar (40mm) anymore and just had it serviced and I wasn't wearing my Panerai 111 so I decided to trade them both in for the GMT. My AD said no problem and I could actually use a $200 store coupon on the purchase of the watch!

In the end everything worked out very well. I only had a small balance after the trade-in and was very happy to have the GMT.

I've worn the GMT every day since I got it. The solid links feel much nicer than the hollow. The overall watch has such a nice wrist feel to it and is very comfortable. I like the weight of SS vs. titanium. That was one of the reasons I had gotten the 111 instead of the 177.
The bezel is so versatile with the blue and black. It changes shades depending on the light (the blue, not the black). It looks great with a suit or jeans. The bezel details are very nice as well. Very detailed in every way and just looks so perfect IMHO. The functionality of the dual-time zone (or three if you know how to use it) is great because I have another office that I talk to often in Phoenix.

This is one purchase I'm not regretting at all. Love this watch and will definitely enjoy it for years to come.

BTW: I did end up picking up a stellar 2006 GMT Pepsi as well. I also installed a Hirsch Rally Strap on my SS Daytona. I'm trying to channel my inner Paul Newman when I'm on the race track! I have a 12 hour endurance race this weekend: http://www.thedevilinthedark.com/

[elcompa]

Nice review. Thanks for that. Well done and good luck!!

[Psmith]

Congrats and nice review

[drjfc62]

That was a very nice review of a gorgeous watch. I hope to have a BLNR one day.

[77T]

Good luck in the race!

[sea-dweller]

Congrats and nice review!

[DaytonaSubmariner]

Originally Posted by 77T

Good luck in the race!

Thanks! Race was yesterday and we ended up finishing 5th overall, 4th in class out of 49 cars.

[77T]

Great.

Some friends haven't had as good of a result at Barber this weekend.

[Agentfeldy2]

How much did u pay for the Pepsi? I'm presently in the market too. Great choices on both!

[DaytonaSubmariner]

Originally Posted by Agentfeldy2

How much did u pay for the Pepsi? I'm presently in the market too. Great choices on both!

I traded my Sub Hulk even up for it. The Sub was NIB, stickers taken off and sized, but never worn. Asking price for the GMT was $7750. It was a bit steep, but it is totally mint! Never polished and the green sticker on the back looks like new yet. I think it was worn maybe a dozen times at the most.
I think you'd be into a GMT Pepsi for anywhere from $4K - $8k depending on year and condition. I've seen a couple of BNIB 16710 go for over $9K, so that'd be the high end.

[Eric Chan]

Great review. Much like you, I wanted to wait until Basel 2014 before making a final decision on the BLNR. Got mine last Tuesday for my birthday and Father's Day and could not take it off for the first week. What a fantastic and beautiful watch. Hope you are still enjoying it