About the Rolex Batman GMT-Master II
Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II reference 116710BLNR in 2013 as the first watch in the GMT-Master line to feature a two-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel, replacing the aluminum inserts of earlier generations with a virtually scratch-proof and fade-resistant material in blue and black. The watch immediately earned the Batman nickname among enthusiasts and quickly became a grail piece, famously offered on the Oyster bracelet at debut before Rolex later introduced the reference 126710BLNR on the Jubilee bracelet at Baselworld 2019, upgrading the movement to the caliber 3285 with Rolex's Chronergy escapement. Both references share the 40 mm Oyster case, screw-down crown, black dial with luminous hour markers, and the signature independently settable 24-hour GMT hand that lets wearers track a second time zone at a glance. The Batman sits at the heart of the modern GMT-Master II lineup, distinguishing itself from the red-and-black Coke and the blue-and-red Pepsi variants through its subtler, versatile color story.
What to Look For
Buyers choosing between references should know that the 116710BLNR wears on the Oyster bracelet with a Glidelock clasp and houses the caliber 3186, while the 126710BLNR moves to the five-link Jubilee bracelet and the newer caliber 3285, a distinction that affects both wrist feel and long-term service intervals. Condition grades, presence of original box and papers, and bracelet stretch are the primary value drivers on the secondary market, with full-set examples commanding meaningful premiums, and rarer configurations such as the white-gold 116749SA with a factory diamond-set bezel sitting in an entirely different price tier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 116710BLNR and the 126710BLNR Batman?
The 116710BLNR, produced from 2013, comes on an Oyster bracelet and is powered by the caliber 3186, while the 126710BLNR introduced in 2019 rides on a more dressy Jubilee bracelet and uses the newer caliber 3285 with a Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency and a longer power reserve. Both share the 40 mm Oystersteel case and the black-and-blue Cerachrom bezel that defines the Batman name.
Is the Rolex Batman a good investment watch to buy?
The Batman GMT-Master II has historically held and appreciated in value on the secondary market due to strong global demand, limited authorized-dealer availability, and the enduring appeal of the black-and-blue Cerachrom bezel. Full-set examples with box and papers in excellent condition consistently command the highest resale prices, making provenance documentation an important factor when purchasing.
What does the 126710BLNROY reference mean, and how does it differ from the standard Batman?
The 126710BLNROY is a GMT-Master II that pairs the black-and-blue Batman bezel with an Oyster bracelet on the current 126710 generation case, offering buyers the newer caliber 3285 movement in a slightly sportier bracelet configuration compared to the Jubilee-strapped standard 126710BLNR. This combination is sometimes informally distinguished from the core Batman by collectors and is notably rarer in the secondary market.
Browse also: Rolex collection.
Buy, trade, or sell. Contact Bizak & Co. for pricing and availability on any reference in this collection.
