
Rolex
GMT-Master II Pepsi
Ref. 126710BLRO
New Price
$11k–$11k
Pre-owned: $18k–$24k
Comparing the Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi ($11k–$11k, 100m WR, 40mm) against the Cartier Santos de Cartier ($8k–$8k, 100m WR, 39.8mm) — specs, movement, community votes, and an expert verdict below. The Cartier Santos de Cartier is the more affordable option by $3k.
Our Verdict
Too Close to Call
Both the Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi and Cartier Santos de Cartier are excellent choices — the winner depends on your priorities, budget, and style preference.
Complete head-to-head comparison

Rolex
Ref. 126710BLRO
New Price
$11k–$11k
Pre-owned: $18k–$24k

Cartier
Ref. WSSA0018
New Price
$8k–$8k
Pre-owned: $6k–$8k
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Visit Cartier Pillar Page →Both sit in a similar price range: Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi at $11k–$11k vs Cartier Santos de Cartier at $8k–$8k — choose based on use case and style preference.
Pros
Cons
Pros
Both are excellent watches with different strengths. The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi offers a larger case and costs more new. The Cartier Santos de Cartier excels in overall construction. The best choice depends on your wrist size, budget, and preferred aesthetic.
The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi retails for $11k–$11k, while the Cartier Santos de Cartier is priced at $8k–$8k. Pre-owned, expect $18k–$24k and $6k–$8k respectively. Actual secondary market prices vary based on condition and demand.
The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi has a 40mm case diameter with 11.9mm thickness, while the Cartier Santos de Cartier measures 39.8mm × 9.08mm. Both have lug-to-lug measurements of 47mm and 48mm respectively. Consider your wrist size and wear style when deciding.
The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi is water-resistant to 100m, while the Cartier Santos de Cartier offers 100m. Both are suitable for swimming and snorkeling at their respective depths. For professional diving, verify the rating exceeds 300m and includes a screw-down crown.
The Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi uses a automatic Cal. 3285 with 70 hours power reserve. The Cartier Santos de Cartier features a automatic Cal. 1847 MC with 40 hours power reserve. Both offer traditional mechanical craftsmanship.
Rolex and Cartier both command strong secondary markets. Pre-owned pricing shows an estimated resale value of $18k–$24k for the GMT-Master II Pepsi and $6k–$8k for the Santos de Cartier. Condition, service history, and box/papers significantly impact resale value for both models.
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The only watch worn on the Moon. The Speedmaster was NASA-qualified in 1965 and accompanied every Apollo mission.
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Rolex's sister brand, delivering in-house movements at 30–60% lower retail prices than its parent.
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Motorsport's official timekeeper for over 50 years — TAG Heuer has timed Formula 1, Le Mans, and the Monaco Grand Prix.
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Invented the quartz movement (1969), the kinetic movement (1988), and the spring drive (1999) — more watch innovations than any other single company.
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