What does “Root Beer” mean?

'Root Beer' describes a Rolex GMT-Master with a brown and black (or brown and gold) colour scheme. The name goes back to two-tone and gold GMT-Masters of the 1970s, such as the 1675/3, which paired a brown bezel insert with a brown dial. Rolex revived the look in 2018 with the GMT-Master II 126711CHNR in Everose Rolesor (steel and Everose gold) and the 126715CHNR in 18k Everose gold, both with a brown and black ceramic bezel and a black dial.

The modern references carry the CHNR suffix, read as chocolate and black. When dealing, make clear which generation you mean, since 'Root Beer' covers both vintage pieces and the current ceramic models. For vintage examples, the condition and originality of the dial and insert matter most; for modern ones, the usual questions about card date, full set and unworn status apply. The two modern references differ greatly in gold content and value, so always confirm the full reference rather than relying on the nickname.

Example: 'Root Beer 126711CHNR, 2021, full set, light wear on the clasp.'