The Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLNR, affectionately nicknamed the "Batman" due to its distinctive two-tone blue and black Cerachrom bezel, is a watch that transcends mere timekeeping. It's a statement piece, a symbol of luxury and precision engineering, and a highly sought-after collectible within the horological world. This article delves deep into the intricacies of this iconic timepiece, exploring its history, design features, technical specifications, and its place within the broader Rolex GMT-Master II family, touching upon related models and their market values.
A Brief History of the GMT-Master II and the Birth of the Batman:
The GMT-Master's origins trace back to the dawn of jet travel in the mid-20th century. Pan Am, a pioneering airline, approached Rolex with a need for a watch that could accurately display multiple time zones simultaneously. The result was the original GMT-Master, a robust and reliable tool watch that quickly gained popularity beyond its initial aviation clientele. Over the years, the GMT-Master evolved, with various iterations showcasing different materials, bezel designs, and movements.
The GMT-Master II, introduced in 1982, represented a significant upgrade, featuring a independently adjustable 24-hour hand, allowing for more flexible time zone tracking. This model laid the groundwork for the modern GMT-Master II lineup, including the iconic "Batman."
The 126710BLNR, launched in 2013, introduced the now-famous two-tone blue and black Cerachrom bezel. This bold design choice, harkening back to the earlier Pepsi and Coke bezels, instantly captivated watch enthusiasts. The combination of the sophisticated black and the vibrant blue, reminiscent of the Dark Knight's color scheme, solidified the "Batman" nickname, further cementing its place in Rolex lore.
Design and Features of the 126710BLNR:
The 126710BLNR boasts a 40mm Oyster case, crafted from robust Oystersteel, a corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel alloy exclusive to Rolex. This case, known for its durability and scratch resistance, houses the self-winding Calibre 3285 movement, a marvel of modern watchmaking. This movement is a testament to Rolex's dedication to precision and reliability, featuring a Parachrom hairspring, a blue Parachrom hairspring, and a high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers. This ensures exceptional accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields and shocks.
The bidirectional rotating bezel, a key feature of the GMT-Master II, is crafted from Rolex's patented Cerachrom ceramic. This material is incredibly scratch-resistant and boasts exceptional color retention, ensuring the vibrant blue and black hues remain vivid even after years of wear. The numerals and graduations on the bezel are filled with platinum using a PVD process, guaranteeing exceptional durability and legibility.
The dial is a clean and sophisticated matte black, providing excellent contrast against the luminescent hour markers and hands. The date window at 3 o'clock is subtly integrated into the design, maintaining the watch's overall elegance. The Oyster bracelet, another hallmark of Rolex design, is meticulously crafted from Oystersteel and features the brand's patented Glidelock clasp, allowing for precise and comfortable adjustment.
Technical Specifications:
* Model Number: 126710BLNR
* Case Material: Oystersteel
* Case Diameter: 40mm
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