In the watch world, certain nicknames are part of the shared vocabulary. “Pepsi”, with its red-and-blue bezel, instantly calls to mind the Rolex GMT-Master II BLRO. But today, Seiko has stolen the show. The Japanese brand has teamed up with the Pepsi — yes, the drink — to launch two limited editions that, for the first time, can be officially called Pepsi. Absurd? Yes. Brilliantly cheeky? Absolutely.
Seiko 5 Sports: Playing With Tradition Since 1963
Since its debut in 1963, the Seiko 5 series has built a reputation for reliability, toughness, and accessibility. Its five defining attributes — automatic movement, day-date display, water resistance, protected crown, and robust case — have remained constant, even as the designs evolved. The modern Seiko 5 Sports lineup isn’t afraid to take risks, from vintage-inspired pieces to unexpected collaborations. And this Pepsi partnership takes it to a new level, making official a nickname that, until now, belonged to no one — though in the minds of many enthusiasts, it was practically Rolex property.
Two Pepsi Flavors: One Strong, One Smooth
First up is the SSK047, based on the GMT model launched in 2022. It sports a 42.5mm steel case with black hard coating, water-resistant to 100m. The red-and-blue bidirectional Hardlex bezel — printed on the underside — allows a second time zone reading via the automatic 4R34 calibre. Blue luminous markers, a red GMT hand, the modern Pepsi logo at 6 o’clock, and — a first for the SKX-GMT line — a Pepsi-themed silicone strap set it apart. Even the see-through caseback carries the logo, just in case you forget what you’re wearing.
Then there’s the SRPL99, the smaller, retro-leaning sibling in a 38mm steel case. With a unidirectional bezel and metallic insert in red and blue, it channels 1990s Pepsi vibes. The silvery-white dial, blue-outlined markers, and vintage Pepsi logo at 6 o’clock give it a nostalgic punch. Inside, the automatic 4R36 calibre brings a day-date function and 41-hour power reserve. It’s mounted on a brushed 3-link steel bracelet, keeping the same 100m water resistance.
A Collaboration With a Wink (and a Laugh)
Let’s be honest: few people actually want a watch branded with a soda logo. But that’s the beauty of it. By officially putting the Pepsi name on the dial, Seiko has taken a visual code beloved in watch culture — historically linked to Rolex — and flipped it into a playful, unexpected partnership. These aren’t just watches; they’re conversation starters, blending mechanical credibility with a knowing wink at the industry’s inside jokes.
My Take, Pricing & Availability
Where Rolex never officially embraced the “Pepsi” nickname, Seiko has… and then printed the logo right on the watch. Both models are limited to 7,000 pieces and priced to stay true to the Seiko 5 ethos: $550 USD for the SSK047 and $395 USD for the SRPL99. They’ll hit stores in September 2025, delivered in packaging inspired by actual Pepsi cans — a collector-friendly touch that seals the fun of this collaboration.
And honestly, seeing a Pepsi watch… in a Pepsi can… almost makes you want to crack one open just for the fizz. If you are a Seiko fan, the brand has released many new hot watches recently : the Prospex Speedtimer x Datsun, the SRPL91/SRPL93 “Gene Kranz” and of course the Prospex 1968 Heritage Diver GMT SPB519.
