The Rolex GMT-Master has been a classic since 1954, and the Rolex Batman is a newer model in this collection. It has a distinctive blue and black ceramic bezel, which gave it the nickname "Rolex Batman."
The blue and black GMT-Master II Rolex Batman was introduced in 2013. Despite its short history, the Rolex Batman GMT-Master II has seen several upgrades and variations. The latest model, 126710BLNR, quickly became a favorite, and its recent enhancements have only increased its popularity among luxury watch enthusiasts.
Read on to learn more about the evolution of the Rolex Batman GMT-Master II.
A Brief History of Rolex GMT-Master
The Rolex GMT-Master collection began with the Reference 6542. This model set a high standard with its unique fourth hand and easily recognizable bezel. It was both practical and stylish, featuring a two-tone blue and red bezel, which earned it the nickname "Rolex Pepsi."
Over the years, the materials for the bezel evolved from Bakelite to anodized aluminum and, more recently, to Cerachrom, Rolex's durable and fade-resistant ceramic. The Reference 6542 even appeared in the James Bond movie Goldfinger. Throughout the decades, the Rolex GMT-Master has seen many updates and improvements.
In 1983, the Rolex GMT-Master II 16760, known as the "Rolex Fat Lady," was introduced. This model allowed the hour hand to be set independently from the minute and second hands, making it easier for travelers to adjust to different time zones.
The Debut of the Rolex Batman
When the Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR, also known as the Rolex Batman, debuted at Baselworld in 2013; it captured the attention of watch enthusiasts everywhere. This model featured a sleek blue and black bezel, a fresh take on the dual-tone design for which the GMT-Master collection is famous.
Before the Batman GMT, Rolex had used Cerachrom, its proprietary ceramic alloy, for bezels for about a decade. However, creating a two-tone bezel with this material was a significant challenge. Rolex had previously stated that only single-color Cerachrom bezels were possible due to the difficulty of working with the ceramic material.
Despite this, Rolex eventually succeeded in creating a two-tone Cerachrom bezel, resulting in a vibrant and durable blue-black combination. The "BLNR" in the reference number stands for "Bleu Noir," which is French for "Blue Black."
The original Batman introduced the first bi-color ceramic bezel and was the only stainless steel GMT-Master II with this feature for several years.
The Key Features of the Rolex Batman Timepiece
- Model: GMT-Master II
- Dial: Black with Four Hands (12-hour, 24-hour, minutes, seconds), Date Window
- Case Material: Oystersteel (904L Stainless Steel)
- Size: 40mm
- Bezel: Blue and Black Cerachrom
- Crystal: Sapphire with Cyclops Date Magnification Lens
- Bracelet: Oyster or Jubilee
- Movements: Automatic
- Water Resistance: 330 Feet (100 Meters)
- MSRP: Starts around $10,550
Rolex Batman Options From 2013 Till Today!
Like all stainless steel Rolex watches, the Batman model is extremely difficult to find. However, the two most popular options are—
Rolex Batman 116710BLNR: 2013-2018
The Rolex Batman ref. 116710BLNR, introduced in 2013, is popular for more than just its distinctive blue and black bezel. This model is based on the Rolex 116710, first released in 2007. The 116710 brought several new features, including the Caliber 3186 movement with a smoother 24-hour hand and a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring.
The GMT-Master ref. 116710BLNR has an Oyster bracelet featuring an Oysterlock clasp with the Easylink extension system. It also had a new bezel mounting system and an upgraded Triplock screw-down crown, which improved its water resistance.
Rolex Batman 126710BLNR: 2019-Present
In 2019, just six years after its debut, the Rolex Batman received its first upgrade with the release of the Rolex 126710. The most notable change was its bracelet. While the original 116710BLNR featured a three-link Oyster bracelet, the new 126710BLNR came with a dressier five-link Jubilee bracelet, complete with a folding Oysterlock safety clasp and the Easylink 5mm extension link. This more elegant look led some to nickname it the “Batgirl” instead of the “Batman.”
The new Jubilee bracelet sparked mixed reactions. Some appreciated the refined update to the popular Batman GMT-Master II, while others preferred the sporty Oyster bracelet, which they felt better matched the GMT-Master’s athletic heritage.
For those who favored the Oyster bracelet, Rolex reintroduced it as an option with the GMT-Master II 126710BLNR in 2021. This means fans of the Rolex Batman can now choose between an Oyster or a Jubilee bracelet.
The 126710BLNR's case was also redesigned with slimmer lugs and a more refined profile for a sleeker wrist feel. Though the case diameter remains 40mm, the 126710BLNR feels thinner and more rounded compared to the more angular shape of the 116710BLNR.
One of the key upgrades in the latest Batman (or Batgirl) is the new-generation Caliber 3285 movement, which boasts a longer power reserve of 70 hours than the previous 48 hours.
Also, if you look closely at the dial of the 126710BLNR, you will see a small Rolex crown between the words “Swiss” and “Made” to signify the new movement.
Conclusion
Looking into luxury watches, the Rolex Batman catches the eye with its vibrant blue and classic black colors, making it a favorite among watch enthusiasts. Whether you like the sporty Oyster bracelet or the classy Jubilee, the Batman remains a timeless choice in the GMT-Master series.
At Gotham City Timepieces in Middle Village, NY, we have an amazing collection of luxury timepieces, along with the trendy Rolex Batman GMT Master II. We choose watches that make you look great and show off your style.
Contact us today and find the perfect watch to suit your style and add elegance to your look.
