Rolex revealed the new GMT-Master II “Batman” at Baselworld 2019. The Rolex GMT-Master II line is well-known for its dual-toned, bidirectional rotating bezels, many of which have acquired unique and quirky nicknames that give them an extra dash of character. For instance, you will see names like “Cookie Monster,” “Starbucks,” “Pepsi,” and “Sprite” as you peruse Rolex GMT-Master II watches in the quest to find the perfect one for your signature style.
Many watch aficionados strive to collect these intensely coveted pieces, especially the special edition models like the popular “Batman” design. So where do these model nicknames come from? What is the history behind the iconic Rolex GMT-Master II line? And why should you consider adding a Batman watch to your collection?
Read on to get the answer to these pressing questions and many more from the pros at Avi & Co., your trusted secondary market watch reseller…
The Rolex GMT-Master II Watch: A Brief History
The story of the GMT-Master II began in the 1950s, when Pan American World Airways approached Rolex to design a watch that could display a second time zone for their pilots. In 1955, Rolex created the original GMT-Master Reference #6542. Over time, the GMT-Master became the watch of choice for collectors. The bi-colored rotating bezel is one of the key features that makes the design unique.
The Rolex GMT-Master watch can display the time in 2 time zones; the local and reference time, or the local and alternative time zone. In other words, you are not limited to GMT (or “Greenwich Mean Time”) specifically. GMT is the time zone used in London, England – but you can choose any two time zones you want to display on your dual time zone GMT-Master watch.
The original GMT-Master watch was so popular that, in 1982, Rolex unveiled the new and improved GMT-Master II line. These upgraded versions introduced a new movement and updated caliber for enhanced ease of use and functionality – but they kept the iconic two-tone bezel, which has become a widely recognizable feature of Rolex watches around the globe.
Features of the Rolex GMT-Master II
Let’s explore some of the key features of the Rolex GMT-Master II watch, especially those that set it apart from its predecessor, the now-vintage GMT-Master.
Upgrades to the Rolex GMT-Master II Batman
At 2019’s Baselworld watch expo, Rolex unveiled new updates to the “Batman” edition of the GMT-Master II line. This watch has the same major updates as the GMT-Master II “Pepsi”, which was unveiled at Baselworld in 2018. As you can see, the most noticeable change to this model is the bracelet. It now comes in a Jubilee bracelet instead of the Oyster Link design, adding a bit more elegance.
The second upgrade is the new Caliber 3285 movement which has a power reserve of up to 70 hours. The prior Batman watch had a Caliber 3186 which only lasted up to 50 hours. These innovations provide more precision, power reserve, shock resistance, and reliability.
The final change on this model appears on the 6:00 part of the dial; there is now a Rolex crown logo between the words “Swiss” and “Made.” This subtle detail will help horological experts determine if pieces from this line are genuine or not.
Why Is There a Rolex Named After Batman?
Many watch aficionados wonder where the nicknames for Rolex watches come from. Did Rolex brand these watches with these names from the factory? Or did timepiece enthusiasts simply come up with clever monikers for some of their favorite watches? Let’s take a closer look at the history of the watch we now know as “Batman.”
There are actually two models of the Rolex GMT-Master II Batman: The 116710BLNR and 126710BLNR. The former is the version produced from 2013 (when the Batman watch was first released) to 2019, and it sports the traditional Oyster Link bracelet. The latter is the Batman watch produced from 2019 onward, which showcases an upgraded Jubilee bracelet as well as the other new developments we covered above.
In those two reference numbers, you will notice an intriguing series of letters: BLNR. Those letters stand for “Bleu Noir,” which is French for “Blue Black” – an apt description of this watch. This is all to say that no, Rolex itself did not dub the watch “Batman.” The name stems from the coloring of the watch, which is reminiscent of Batman’s costume colors in the original comic books from DC Comics.
The best news of all? The Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman” watch is far from the only exciting design available in this current line of updated watches. There are numerous color combinations available that have yielded pop-culture inspired nicknames similar to the Batman watch.
Other Popular Rolex GMT-Master II Models
If you are looking for a unique Rolex watch, look no further than Avi & Co. As one of the top watch resellers on the secondary market, we sell only vetted and verified pieces that are 100% genuine. You won’t find any aftermarket modified watches here – we specialize in factory-set timepieces that shine a light on the rich history and tradition of luxury watchmaking.
We have a wide selection of popular Rolex GMT-Master II watches in stock, including fan favorites like the “Root Beer,” “Pepsi,” and “Sprite” editions.
The GMT-Master II “Root Beer” edition is a unique watch due to its materials and construction. Unlike many other pieces in the GMT-Master II collection, it sports a dual-toned bracelet made from both stainless steel and 18K rose gold. The black dial features index markers as well as the classic date window. The bezel is a two-tone combination of brown and black.
We also love the GMT-Master II “Sprite” watch, which made waves when it was first launched in 2022. It showcases a vibrant green and black Cerachrom bezel and is a uniquely positioned lefty watch. Horological aficionados were excited to try a flipped bezel (the crown is placed on the opposite side) and quickly sold out this highly coveted piece. Like the “Batman” edition, the “Sprite” edition offers a Jubilee bracelet and is made from stainless steel.
Pop Culture Inspired Rolex Watches
Rolex GMT-Master II watches are not the only ones that have generated pop culture inspired nicknames. Journey over to the supremely water-resistant Rolex Submariner collection, and you will find none other than the all-green Hulk watch and a watch dubbed “Starbucks” for its green bezel and black dial combination.
We are also partial to the Rolex “Cookie Monster,” another Submariner model, and the “Smurf.” The Smurf offers a blue dial and bezel while the Cookie Monster combines a blue bezel with a smart black dial, somewhat evocative of the classic color combination found on the Rolex GMT-Master II Batman edition.
Whatever model of Rolex you prefer, there is a pop culture reference out there to make it feel like yours. These fun Rolex nicknames are part of the charm of these timeless watches, and they add an element of playfulness and fun that is the perfect contrast to the stately nature of a Rolex timepiece. Whether you would like to wear Batman, Root Beer, Cookie Monster, or Starbucks on your wrist, head over to Avi & Co. to find the perfect Rolex for you.
Get Your Rolex “Batman” at Avi & Co.
The Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman” edition is a coveted member of one of our favorite Rolex lines. With the timeless blue-black dial and the striking Jubilee bracelet, it offers a classic mix of tasteful and sporty elements. The Batman watch can be dressed up or down, and it is sure to complement streetwear as well as formalwear. With its recent updates revealed during 2019’s Baselworld expo, the Batman watch is now better than ever.
Visit Avi & Co. in one of our three upscale showrooms, located in New York, Miami, or Aspen, to try on the GMT-Master II “Batman” for yourself. Make an appointment to stop in right here – we cannot wait to help you find the Rolex of your dreams.
