The purpose of this page is to delve into the timeless and stunning Rolex Batman GMT-Master II reference 116710BLNR which Rolex introduced in 2013. Toward this end, I’ve included over 20 pictures of the watch, from in the box to on the wrist and everywhere in between.
This article focuses on the first Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman,” with the nickname referring to the black and blue bezel with ceramic insert.
More specifically, this Rolex Batman possesses the first EVER bi-colored ceramic bezel to be featured on Rolex watches. Many assume that it was the ceramic “Pepsi” bezel (blue/red) GMT-Master II which was the first Rolex with a dual-tone ceramic bezel, but this is not the case. Although ceramic can be brittle, its anti-scratch properties outweigh this downside.
The ceramic bezel manufacturing process is patented by Rolex, and it’s important to note that the bezel is a single component, not two differently-colored components that are somehow fused; this fact is what makes the bezel so difficult to produce, and it’s likely that few others will be able to replicate it to the same standard.
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Watch The Video Review
Rolex Batman 116710BLNR Specs & Price
- Dial: Black with 18K white gold hour markers
- Movement: Rolex 3186 self-winding movement
- Swiss Official Chronometer Certified by COSC
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Depth Of Case: 12.4mm
- Case Material: 904L stainless steel
- Bracelet & Size: Oyster bracelet, 20mm
- “Easy Link” allows a 5mm addition to the bracelet for comfort
- Water Resistance: 100m / 330ft
- Screw-down crown, with crown protectors
- Special Features / Complications:
- GMT Function (independent 24-hour hand)
- Rotating bi-directional 24-hour bezel
- Bi-color bezel (black and blue, a first-ever!)
- Date window with Rolex cyclops crystal
- Original Retail Price: ~$8,995 (Discontinued 2019)
- Shop Pre-Owned [eBay / Bob’s Watches]
Personally, I would classify the Rolex Batman in the style category of sporty/business casual. However, the fame attained by the model and the high price it commands on the second-hand market has led it to be worn in even the most formal settings.
The Rolex Batman BLNR In Macro Shots
For me, the blue and black bezel color makes the most sense of any bezel color combination for GMT watches as it perfectly represents “day” and “night”.
The bezel makes one full rotation in 24 moves that align with the hour markers. You use the blue “GMT” hand to read the time in the second time zone.
Many Rolex collectors believe that this GMT hand should always be set to GMT (London) time, but I however feel it’s up to the user to decide what is best for their lifestyle. Some choose to have their home time while away on vacation or business and revert back to a day/night indicator while at home. It’s really up to you.
The GMT complication was originally requested of Rolex Watches by Pam AM Airlines in the 1960s. With the advent of intercontinental flights, pilots needed a way to track multiple time zones with a single watch. Thus, the original GMT-Master was born.
The Rolex Batman’s 40mm Case
At 12.4mm case depth, this modern Rolex GMT-Master II sits very well on the wrist and feels exceptionally sturdy thanks to its stainless steel Oyster bracelet.
The Oysterclasp is just as rugged in its construction, though it has been skillfully crafted, resulting in a beautiful component that is often overlooked. Additionally, the clasp boasts the Easylink extension which adds 5mm of length to the bracelet and can be easily opened or closed.
Review Of Rolex Batman 116710 “On The Wrist”
I’ve now owned this, the original Batman, for more than 5 years and can easily state that I absolutely love it. Its classic looks, date window, GMT complication, and sturdy feel are exactly what I was looking for in an everyday casual watch.
I originally hail from London, so setting the GMT hand to the GMT time zone is fine for me as it “bases” me back to the motherland and where all my family still reside. Now, however, I live in Philadelphia, which is the eastern time zone (-5 hours from GMT) of the USA. The picture above clearly shows how to read the time.
Using a combination of the “normal” hour hand, GMT hand, and bezel, it’s possible to crack up to three time zones.
- The “Mercedes” hour hand is at 2:36 (and it’s the afternoon)
- The blue GMT hand is pointing between 19 and 20, making it 7:36 pm in GMT (London)
- Finally, if I were to rotate the bezel I could set a third time zone
The blue and black bezel color scheme makes this a very versatile watch. Indeed, I’ve found it looks both great in a casual setting (above), and a more business casual setting (below).
I would however say that it’s not a formal watch, and one should consider other models, such as a plain time-only watch, for more formal business and black tie events.
What’s In The Box Of The GMT-Master II 116710BLNR
For many years, this Rolex Batman GMT-Master II was the most desired watch in the catalog. And while its popularity has not decreased, it now shares the stage with later GMT-Masters such as the Rolex Batgirl (black/blue bezel with a Jubilee bracelet) and the newer Pepsi GMT-Master II (red/blue bezel also with Jubilee bracelet).
Today, one need only take a look at the pre-owned market as proof that the first GMT-Master II remains one of the hottest Rolex watches out there. As of this writing, the 116710BLNR is trading at more than double its original retail price of about $9,000.
When this Batman was first announced in 2013, this kind of price premium over MSRP was absolutely unheard of. Yet, demand quickly grew to overtake the limited supply of Rolex sports watches, and this 116710BLNR was one of the first to experience it.
In the following series of pictures, you can see all of the accessories that you can expect to find in the box of a new Rolex GMT-Master II Batman.
There were roughly 2.7 million stickers attached to the watch…some of which were completely hidden. I even found several after a couple of weeks of wearing.
The box is a standard green Rolex box, solid and understated.
Rolex is historically a brand that made watches for explorers, divers, and sportspeople, becoming more linked to luxury in the modern age. This is carried over in the boxes and other supplied material, compared to other brands.
Top 5 Reasons Why The Rolex Batman GMT Is A Great Watch
This watch has quickly become one of my favorites in my collection. Below are my top five reasons why:
- It’s been a timeless design for over 50 years and has no reason to stop being a classic. The face is very readable at a quick glance
- It feels very solid on the wrist, not overly heavy but does stay in place very well
- The complications are highly functional for the average guy with the:
- GMT Hand
- Bi-directional bezel, and
- Date window (and “cyclops” magnifier for readability)
- Solid depth rating of 100m, so you don’t have to worry about any spontaneous leaps into the ocean or heavy downpours
- I don’t like to focus on the economics of my watch collection, but in this case, it’s hard to ignore the exceptional demand for this particular GMT-Master II Batman model that is so significantly exceeding the retail price. So if anyone is on the fence about buying this watch at the retail price from an Authorized Dealer, that’s a pretty strong “insurance policy” if you end up for some unknown reason not liking the watch
Final Thoughts On The Batman 116710BLNR
Overall I would highly recommend this watch for a wide array of men.
Firstly, the guy who is looking for a rugged watch that is good-looking and functional in plenty of situations, and is not as generic as the Rolex Submariner (even though they share the same case). And secondly, the traveler who will actively use the GMT complication.
Even though it retails for $8,995 USD, I feel it offers outstanding value for money with the heritage of Rolex, the usability of the watch with its depth rating & GMT function, not to finally mention how strongly it’s exceeded its original retail price.
Expect to see plenty more looks of this watch on the Bespoke Unit Instagram page in the near and long-term future, as I have no plans to be getting rid of this piece anytime soon.
"I absolutely love this watch!The timeless design, solid feel on the wrist and functional complications make the Rolex Batman GMT-Master II a great piece to own. Highly recommended.”
Further Reading
Now that you have read my review of the Rolex GMT-Master II Batman reference 116710BLNR, check out some more of our watch resources:
This is my favorite of the two-tone bezels. While I agree that this is a much more casual watch, it is also pretty incognito in a business setting; especially if paired with a dark suit.
That’s exactly right Bob.
It seems like the most natural / logical color combo being day and night.
Cheers – Paul
Paul, where did you buy it at 8300usd? Thx
Dasdo
Hello Dasdo,
Great to hear from you. I bought this directly from GovebergWatches.com.
I live in Philadelphia but I believe they ship worldwide.
Cheers, Paul
Greets from Cyprus … Great review … thx
Hello from Philadelphia!
Thanks for the kind words.
– Paul
Great review, Paul. I currently own the Hulk (116610LV), the GMT with black bezel (116710LN), and the Sea-Dweller (116600). All three are great. As I have the colors green and black among these three, I’m thinking of the Batman GMT due the the blue in its bezel. What do you think of my adding it to my collection? Thank you!
Thanks for the kind words Michael, and nice Rolex collection!
I think if you’re looking to stay within Rolex you have three really solid options:
1 – Stay Sporty: As you suggested, the Batman is a good option to add a little color, but is pretty much the same case design as your other three and you already own a GMT. But if you love the case and bezel design you won’t be disappointed!
2 – Extra Complications: The Sky-Dweller in stainless steel with the blue dial might be perfect (just released, so might be a small wait on this one), and as in non-precious metal is not a big financial jump from the Batman. It covers the new color, GMT function and an annual calendar to boot! This would be my choice.
3 – More Formal / Dressy: To go really left field, and get you into something more dressy, why not a Day-Date 40mm blue dial with Roman Numerals… (also the green dial on “Everose” is stunning too!) If that’s too far financially or don’t like the look, in a similar vein the Datejust 41 with a blue dial and fluted bezel is also a wonderful choice.
The world really is your oyster here….
Good luck and let me know what you end up with!
All the best,
– Paul
Hey, Paul. Appreciate the quick and insightful reply. I actually was thinking of the new Sky Dweller with the blue dial as well. I’ll need to see one in person as I’m so used to the sports look and it’s durable sense. I’ll definitely let you know. Thanks again.
Michael
Hi Paul,
Just decided (& ordered) my first rolex!
I doubted a long time between the Submariner date & the GMT II, but reading you article made me sway towards the GMT II 116710BLNR as she makes the GMT II even more special.
And I wear a lot of blue, so the blue/black bezel really is a bonus to me…
Probably I still have to wait some weeks or months, but it only makes it more special…
And now I can start dreaming of my next Rolex, probably will be a more classic design like the datejust (blue dial/flutes bezel)
Great review by the way…
Ward
Dear Ward,
Great to hear from you, and glad the article was of assistance. The GMT in general for me is a blockbuster over the Sub.
I’ve had mine for 18 months now, and enjoying it more and more! [I need to update the post to reflect my experience on the wrist, so look out for that…].
Next one is a great choice too re Datejust. I’m a Rolex junkie, but don’t forget brands like Omega and JLC that are less or in the same ballpark for price especially on the pre-owned market, and have some lovely dress watch options.
All the best, and congratulations on your first Rolex!
– Paul
I agree with your review it’s an excellent watch I bought this year the new Daytona with ceramic Basel the new explorer 1 but by far I love the Batman!!!!!
Thanks for the comment, and great collection!
I’m on some lists to get the new Daytona, but not got one yet.
However, still loving the Batman.
Cheers, Paul
Thanks Paul for the comprehensive review. It steered my decision to go for the BLNR (over the Milgauss GV), and I will be picking my Batman this Friday from the Nairobi Rolex AD. Oh, and hi from Kenya.
Dear Anthony,
Thanks for the kind words, makes all the time and effort worth it!
Both fantastic watches, but with the added functionality of the GMT hand and bi-directional bezel it always wins out for me!
Congratulations on the new purchase, and tag us on Instagram.com/bespokeunit if you have an account.
Cheers from London,
– Paul
Hi Paul,
My name is Brandon and I live in New Zealand. Im enjoyed your write up and have been trying to source a RolexBatman for the past 8 months to no avail. Do you know of any reputable dealers that would ship to NZ? Thanks very much in advance.
Brandon Hiini
Hello Brandon,
I believe Govberg in Philly ships to NZ, as they have offices in Hong Kong too…
Best of luck,
– Paul
Paul,
I agree with what you said about this watch. It’s beautiful. My wife just gave me the Rolex Batman for Valentine’s Day, but I don’t think it’s for me. I have a Rolex DeepSea Sea Dweller Blue on order, but AD said it could be over a year before they get it in. I enjoy diving, and love the bulkinees of the DeepSea. This will be my first Rolex, and I would like to get the one I want. So I left all the stickers on the Batman Rolex for the next owner to peel off. I live in a rural area, and is very hard to find a buyer. I really don’t want to list it on EBay or anything like that. I would like to sell it face to face meeting at a Rolex dealer. Any recommendation on how I should sell this?
Hi Mike,
Thanks for your kind words.
That’s a very nice gift, shame it was a little off the mark for you. Some AD’s will take it back within a few days / weeks if unworn (especially if you / your family have had a previous relationship with them).
Aside from that could try to trade in / exchange it with an AD, or pre-owned dealer such as Govberg (but they are going to want to take 20-30% for their troubles). I’ve also had some good experiences with CrownAndCaliber.com re trades and getting good deals.
Lastly, I’ve successfully sold several watches on Chrono24.com (it’s a more pleasant experience than Ebay).
Hope that helps, and you get the Rolex of your dreams!
Cheers,
– Paul
Wonderful article! Completely agree. Have bought several of the Rolex tool watches in the past as well as date / datejust. Got to say that I prefer this to Daytona as well. Will keep it as my only everyday watch and my signature look.
Thanks for the kind words.
I have to agree, this is one of the most wearable day-to-day watches I’ve ever owed. I find myself wearing for long periods of time, neglecting the rest of my collection!
Cheers – Paul
Hi Paul,
Right now I own a classic SS Datejust 36mm silver dial, with oyster bracelet. This is clearly a Dress Watch. Now I am looking for a Sports model watch with a black dial in the Rolex Professional line. My options are: Sub no date 114060, GMT 116710LN (Black) and the GMT 116710NBLNR. Leaning towards the BLNR for being a very unique, special, stunning, and very beautiful watch. But anyways I would like to know for feedback and suggestions on this one.
Dear Diego,
Love the classic SS Datejust in 36mm, perfect dress watch size.
As for your sporty desires, I’m very partial to the two tone blue / black GMT for it’s more “functional” day / night appearance. Also holds best value in the group. As a second choice I have some friends with the all black GMT, which is also a great option if you’re more conservative, I feel the sub is far too popular so the GMT gives the same look with a little something extra!
Hope that helps, and please let us know what you decide on.
– Paul
Thank you very much Paul, indeed will let you know!
hi. tks for the review. do you know how much this watch weighs? tks
Hi Tony,
The Batman is a very light watch and comes in only at 127g on the scales including the bracelet and links.
All the best,
CP
I own the the all black steel, and I must say these watches can be worn casual or formal, as with a suit.
Hi Maurice,
Of course, it’s a question of personal preference. We think that the Batman goes well with more business casual style suits. However, we wouldn’t wear it for particularly dressy or very formal occasions. However, it is indeed a very versatile watch and it’s your call on how you enjoy it!
Best,
CP
No Doubt Rolex Batman GMT is a great watch. I really like and want to buy this watch.
Yeah shes a stunner!
I’m very luck to have in my collection.
– Paul
The BLNR is a great watch, for all occasions except, IMHO, for true formal wear, i.e. a “dinner suit,” or “tux.” for the colonials.
I have a “Batgirl,” i.e. on a jubilee. It is the only Rolex I take a true shine to.
Mine however comes from China.
If I could I would buy one from Switzerland but given Rolex’ marketing games I can’t get one from an AD for MSRP.
And I will not pay $20k for a wind up wath.
I believe that one of the factors that have caused the meteoric rise in steel sports watches such as the BLNR is the fact that it can pair relatively well with formal wear. Traditionally, no watch should be worn with formal wear however, with time, such “rules” have faded. I believe a classic dress watch, for example a date-only gold piece on a leather strap, is a better option though the full-bracelet steel option is now widely accepted (if only because of the price they carry.)
Rafael