The Rolex GMT-Master II "Batman," with its instantly recognizable blue and black Cerachrom bezel, is a highly sought-after watch, commanding significant attention in the luxury watch market. But pinpointing the exact moment this iconic timepiece emerged requires delving into its fascinating history. This article explores the "Batman's" journey, examining its model years, variations, and the evolution of its distinctive design, including a fictionalized account from a supposed long-time Rolex collector, Bob.
History of the Rolex Batman:
To understand the "Batman's" debut, we must first appreciate its lineage within the broader GMT-Master II family. The GMT-Master, initially conceived in the 1950s for Pan Am pilots, was designed to display two time zones simultaneously. Its evolution saw various iterations, including the introduction of the GMT-Master II, which offered an independently adjustable hour hand, allowing for greater flexibility in time zone tracking. The early GMT-Master IIs showcased various bezel configurations, often in solid colors like black or red/blue (the "Pepsi"). The "Batman" represents a significant departure, marking a shift toward a more modern and visually striking design.
The bi-color bezel, the defining feature of the "Batman," wasn't an entirely new concept. Rolex had experimented with two-tone bezels in the past, but the combination of blue and black on a GMT-Master II was a bold move. This daring color scheme, reminiscent of the iconic superhero, quickly gained traction among collectors and enthusiasts, cementing its place in Rolex's history. The choice of ceramic for the bezel, introduced as Cerachrom, further enhanced its durability and scratch resistance, solidifying the watch's status as a robust and sophisticated timepiece.
Rolex Batman Model Years:
The definitive answer to "When did the Rolex Batman come out?" is Baselworld 2013. This is when Rolex officially unveiled the GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR, the first iteration of the "Batman." While Rolex didn't explicitly name it the "Batman," the nickname quickly caught on due to the striking resemblance of its blue and black bezel to the superhero's costume.
The ref. 116710BLNR remained in production for several years, becoming a highly sought-after model. Rolex's production runs are not publicly disclosed, so precise figures on the number of units produced are unavailable. However, anecdotal evidence from authorized dealers and collectors suggests that the demand consistently outpaced the supply, making it a challenging watch to acquire, even at its original retail price.
Rolex Batman Models:
While the ref. 116710BLNR was the first "Batman," it's not the only model. Rolex later introduced variations and successors, leading to a small but significant family of "Batman" watches:
* GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR (2013-2019): This is the original "Batman," featuring a 40mm Oyster case, the iconic blue and black Cerachrom bezel, and a Jubilee bracelet.
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