Being one of the most sought-after watches in Rolex history, the GMT-Master II 116710BLNR is a one-of-a-kind addition to any watch enthusiast’s collection. In the realm of luxury watches, few timepieces hold the same allure as the Rolex Batman. With its distinctive dual-colored bezel, impeccable craftsmanship, and iconic comic character nickname, this timepiece has become a legend in the world of horology.
The Origins of Rolex Batman
Rolex Batman made its debut in 2013 at Baselworld as a part of the Rolex GMT-Master II collection. The GMT-Master was introduced in alliance with Pan American Airways as a watch for pilots flying between time zones, the first iteration of which was the Rolex “Pepsi”. This watch featured a blue and red bezel inspired by Pan Am’s colors. The two colors on the watch allowed pilots to read time in two different zones easily, making it a functional and attractive watch to own.
The Batman was introduced as a successor to the popular Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” model. The name was coined by watch enthusiasts due to its blue and black ceramic bezel, resembling the colors of the superhero’s costume. Even though other names were given a try, Batman is the name that stuck around.
Design and Features
Rolex Batman boasts a striking design that effortlessly combines elegance with technology. The watch has many exciting features that contribute to its uniqueness and specialty. They include:
- 904L stainless
- 40mm case
- Cerachrom bezel
- Caliber 3285
Crafted from Rolex’s signature 904L stainless steel, the watch exudes robustness and durability. The 40mm case size ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist for both men and women.
However, the true showstopper of the Rolex Batman is its bezel. Made from Cerachrom, Rolex’s patented ceramic material, it offers exceptional resistance to scratches and fading. The bi-color design features a blue section representing daytime hours and a black section for nighttime hours. This feature, coupled with the watch’s GMT function, allows wearers to track two different time zones simultaneously.
The Batman dial, with its luminescent hour markers and hands, offers excellent legibility in any lighting conditions. Powered by Rolex’s self-winding movement, the Caliber 3285, the watch guarantees exceptional precision and reliability.
Enduring Appeal of Rolex Batman
The Rolex Batman’s enduring appeal lies not only in its design and functionality but also in its exclusivity. As with all Rolex watches, the Batman has a reputation for exceptional quality and attention to detail. The meticulous craftsmanship and the use of premium materials ensure that each piece is a true work of art.
Furthermore, Rolex Batman’s association with the iconic comic book character adds to its allure. The watch captures the imagination of Batman enthusiasts and horology aficionados alike, creating a unique niche within the luxury watch market.
Investment Value
Over the years, Rolex Batman has proven to be an excellent investment choice. Its popularity, limited availability, and the brand’s commitment to exclusivity have contributed to its value appreciation. Collectors and enthusiasts eagerly seek out the Batman model, leading to high demand and a significant increase in its resale value.
Since the original Rolex Batman was discontinued (GMT-Master II 116710BLNR), its value, along with the new models, has increased in the secondary market. If you’re looking to purchase the Batman, check out prices with pre-owned luxury watch dealers. Here are the approximate Rolex Batman price for various versions.
| Rolex Batman Prices | ||
| Watch | Pre-owned prices | Retail prices |
| Rolex Batman – 126710BLNR | AED 65,000 to AED 90,000 | AED 42,850 – AED 43,700 |
| Rolex Batman – 116710BLNR | AED 53,000 to AED 80,000 | Discontinued |
Pre-owned prices are subject to vary depending on the demand for the watch. However, make sure to check out the prices with different watch dealers before making the purchase.
What is the Rolex Batgirl?
Rolex Batgirl refers to the GMT-Master II 126710BLNR with a Jubilee bracelet. When Rolex Batman was reintroduced in 2019, the Oyster bracelet was replaced and discontinued. This led fans to refer to the new version as Batgirl. However, Rolex later released the watch with an Oyster bracelet which can be bought from retail stores.
Rolex Batman: A Watch of Elegance
Rolex Batman is more than just a luxury watch; it symbolizes craftsmanship, style, and exclusivity. Its unique design, functionality, and association with the legendary superhero make it a coveted timepiece in the world of horology. Whether you are an avid collector or a Batman enthusiast, the Rolex Batman is a timeless legend that continues to captivate watch lovers around the globe.
