Okay, so, I’ve been wanting to get my hands on a Rolex GMT-Master II with that “Root Beer” bezel for a while now. You know, the one with the black and brown ceramic bezel? It’s just so freaking cool, and I figured, why not try to make my own version? Not an exact replica, mind you, but something that captures that same vibe.
First things first, I needed a watch to start with. I didn’t want to spend a fortune, so I started looking around at some mid-range brands. I read a bunch of reviews and ended up going with a Stuhrling Meridian 3968. It’s got that GMT function, which is key, and it’s a decent size, 42mm, just like the real deal. Seemed like a good starting point.
Next up was the bezel. This was the tricky part. I knew I wouldn’t find an exact copy of the Rolex Root Beer bezel, but I was hoping to find something with a similar color scheme. I spent hours searching online, checking out all sorts of watch parts websites. I finally found a ceramic bezel insert that was brown and, it was not black but a gold-filled index markers, which looked pretty darn close to what I was going for. It wasn’t perfect, but it was close enough.
Then came the actual work. Now, I’m no watchmaker, but I’m pretty handy, and I figured, how hard could it be? I watched a few YouTube videos on how to swap out a bezel insert, got myself a set of basic watch tools, and went for it.
- Step 1: I had to remove the original bezel from the Stuhrling. This involved carefully prying it off with a special tool. It was a bit nerve-wracking, I didn’t want to scratch the watch case!
- Step 2: Once the old bezel was off, I had to clean the watch case where the bezel sits. Got to get all that gunk out, you know? Just used some alcohol and a soft cloth.
- Step 3: Then came the moment of truth – putting the new brown and gold bezel insert on. I carefully lined it up and pressed it into place. It fit pretty snugly, which was a relief.
It took me a good couple of hours, and there were a few moments where I thought I’d messed the whole thing up. But, I pushed through. And you know what? In the end, it actually turned out pretty good! The watch looks completely different now. It’s got that Root Beer vibe I was after, and it’s definitely a unique piece. Plus, I did it all myself, which makes it even cooler, right?
Of course, it’s not a real Rolex. It doesn’t have that same weight, or that super smooth movement. But, honestly, I’m really happy with how it turned out. It’s a fun little project that I can wear and enjoy, and it reminds me of that awesome Root Beer GMT-Master II, but it’s in my own way. It is kind of like my own little piece of sunshine that brightens up my day, just like what the original Root Beer does.
And hey, I saved myself a ton of money. Maybe one day I’ll get the real deal, but for now, my homemade “Root Beer” homage is doing just fine. Plus the card is dated 2023 and shows little to no wear. It is perfect! You know, just something to share with you guys. So, what do you think? Not bad for a first attempt, huh?
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