Rolex GMT Master Batman Watches
About the Rolex Batman
Characterized by its blue and black bezel, the GMT-Master II Batman is one of Rolex's most popular modern sports models. Rolex introduced the first GMT-Master II Batman in 2013 and has since replaced that original reference with a newer model with a handful of design updates and a new-generation movement.
GMT-Master II Batman History
When Rolex released the first batch of GMT-Master II watches with Cerachrom ceramic bezels starting in the mid-2000s, there was a significant design element missing—the option for a bi-color bezel. The two-tone bezel was always a signature trait of the GMT-Master lineup since the mid-1950s (it was a way to differentiate between day and night hours) but Rolex declared that due to the nature of the material, it would be impossible to manufacture a two-colored Cerachrom bezel.
However, after years of research and development, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR with a black and blue Cerachrom bezel. BLNR is short for the French words "bleu" and "noir," which translates to "blue" and "black." As with many Rolex watches, the then-new watch picked up a nickname along the way and it is now commonly known as the GMT-Master II Batman.
After only six years in production, the 116710BLNR was replaced by the GMT-Master II Batman ref. 126710BLNR in 2019. Although the new Batman retained its distinguishing blue and black Cerachrom bezel, the new reference is equipped with Rolex's latest caliber and is exclusively available with a Jubilee bracelet rather than an Oyster bracelet. The ref. 126710BLNR is sometimes called the "Rolex Batgirl" thanks to its dressier bracelet.
- 2013: Rolex introduces GMT-Master II Batman ref. 116710BLNR with the first bi-colored Cerachrom bezel
- 2019: Rolex releases new-generation GMT-Master II Batman ref. 126710BLNR with an updated movement and a Jubilee bracelet
GMT-Master II Batman References, Features, and Options
There have only been two GMT-Master II Batman references made:
- GMT-Master II 116710BLNR
- GMT-Master II 126710BLNR
GMT-Master II Batman watches are exclusively available in stainless steel and feature black and blue Cerachrom bezels with platinum-coated engraved numerals. They are automatic watches that offer dual-time functionality and a date window at three o'clock, magnified by a Cyclops lens. The 12-hour hand is a Mercedes-style hand that indicates local time. Conversely, the 24-hour hand features a triangular tip and displays a second time zone by pointing to the 24-hour marked bezel. A third time zone can also be read if the wearer rotates the bezel in accordance with the time difference of the second time zone.
While both GMT-Master II Batman watches are somewhat similar, there are some major differences to note.
GMT-Master II Batman 116710BLNR vs. GMT-Master II Batman 126710BLNR
Buying GMT-Master II Batman Pre-Owned vs. New
If you're a fan of the GMT-Master II Batman with an Oyster bracelet, then the only option is to buy the ref. 116710BLNR from the pre-owned market since Rolex no longer manufactures them. Prices for pre-owned GMT-Master II Batman 116710BLNR watches start at $14,500.
On the other hand, if you prefer the GMT-Master II Batman with Jubilee bracelet, you can purchase a GMT-Master II Batman ref. 126710BLNR at retail since it's part of the current Rolex catalog. The official retail price for the ref. 126710BLNR is $9,700.
However, a very important caveat to this is that due to the popularity of the GMT-Master II Batman ref. 126710BLNR, they are essentially sold out across Rolex boutiques everywhere. Therefore, if you want to avoid waiting years for a new ref. 126710BLNR from Rolex, then the pre-owned market is the most realistic option. Prices for GMT-Master II Batman ref. 126710BLNR watches in the pre-owned market start at $16,500.
Rolex Batman Reference Number(s):
116710BLNR
Years Rolex Batman was Produced:
2013 - Present
Rolex Batman Nickname Origin:
Rolex's green Submariner with ceramic bezel insert isn't the only Rolex sport watch with a superhero nickname; the latest addition to the GMT-Master line, the reference 116710BLNR is lovingly called the "Batman GMT" by many Rolex collectors.
The reference 116710BLNR marks the first time in Rolex history that a two-color ceramic bezel insert is available on a stainless steel sport watch. While its black and blue color profile embraces similar hues to Gotham's superhero from the old DC comic books, the "Batman" nickname likely came about as a logical pairing for the pre-existing "Hulk" nickname that had already been established for Rolex's green Submariner. To view a list of our GMT watches for sale visit our used Rolex GMT Master collection page.
Rolex Batman Celebrity Associations:
John Mayer, Roger Federer, Christian Benteke, Kasper Schmeichel
Unique Features for the Rolex Batman
A half black, half blue, 24-hour bezel insert with silver text - made Cerachrom.