Nicknames and Abbreviations for Rolex Models

Rolex models have various nicknames and abbreviations that are used - mainly on the Internet - to differentiate one configuration from another. Most of them are easy to figure out in context, but the use of these terms can be confusing to someone who is less familiar with the models and configurations they refer to. 

Rolex GMT-Master II 'Pepsi' (photo: Rolex)

The model with perhaps the most nicknames is the GMT-Master II. Most of the names reference the color combination on the bezel. The red and blue bezel combination shown above is known as the 'Pepsi' due to its likeness to the soft drink company's logo. Not to be outdone, there's a GMT model referred to as the 'Coke' that features a red and black bezel and a gold and brown bezel called the 'Rootbeer' GMT. The blue and black configuration is known as the 'Batman' and also by the letters BLNR in its reference number, referring to the French words for blue and black.

There are a few nicknames for Submariner models as well. The 'Hulk' refers to the stainless steel Sub with the green dial and bezel. The white gold Submariner with blue bezel and dial is called the 'Smurf' and the two tone version with the same blue on blue bezel and dial combo is often called the 'Blusie'. The 50th Anniversary version of the Submariner featuring a green bezel and black dial is commonly known as the 'Kermit' after the Kermit the Frog of Muppets fame.

The Daytona has its fair share of model nicknames. There are vintage Daytona models with a dial popularized by actor and race car driver Paul Newman that go by his name. There is also a Daytona model featuring a white dial and black sub-dials known as the 'Panda' as well as a version that goes by 'Platona' because it is made with platinum.

These nicknames are not used by Rolex in any official capacity, however, The Rolex Forums has compiled a list of abbreviations and acronyms that include some of the ones I mentioned above on a sticky post in their open discussion forum. Some find the use of these names silly or childish, but in the long run it does help to quickly differentiate between models once you have a handle on what's what. After all, it's easier to memorize descriptive words than a string of reference numbers associated with a model configuration.

>>BACK TO SHOPPING GUIDE