BATMAN OF THE HOROLOGY WORLD
If we ask what is the first brand that comes to mind when it comes to watches, the answer to this question is probably Rolex 95% of the time. Well, which models come to mind when we say Rolex? We would start with the models that are very popular and also classics of the brand. I think Daytona, Submariner and GMT Master are the first models comes to mind. Today, our topic is one of these watches: GMT Master II 116710 BLNR, popularly called “Batman”. Since the day it has been introduced it was a hit for the markets. If you were lucky enough to be able to purchase for it’s retail price from a Rolex boutique, you would easily make a profit on your second hand sale. Let’s first look at the history of this watch.
With the development of the aviation industry and the prolonged flight distances in the 1950s, Pan Am Airlines started to see a watch showing two different time zones for its pilots at the same time as a must. Then they knocked on Rolex’s door. The GMT Master, which we can call one of the most popular watch models of today, has emerged from this cooperation.
Later on, Batman was introduced to the market as a continuation model of the 2nd generation GMT Master family. The first GMT Master II has been introduced in 1983 with the reference 16760. The watch has received the nickname “Batman” from Christie’s, which is known by the watch enthusiasts with it’s auctions. Black and blue colors on the bezel has referred to the Dark Knight.
Batman, which has been produced with a oyster bracelet has a Caliber 3186 mechanism that we are used to see in GMT Master II models since 2005. I don’t want to go into much detail about it’s mechanism but shortly, caliber 3186 is an automatic and reliable mechanism with a 48-hour power reserve, with a precision of -2 / + 2 seconds per day, with GMT (showing two different time zones). I made my own test on the watch; it was 1 second ahead after 24 hours. Caliber 3186 features an independently adjustable 24-hour hand to indicate a second time zone. It operates at a frequency of 28.800 VPH.
So what makes Batman special? When we look at GMT Master II models chronologically, we see that innovations are frequently made on the bezel and the dial colors. Rolex has been re-introducing the color combinations in its vintage models over the years. The biggest feature of the Batman model is that; it brings a new color and a new breath to the GMT Master II series rather than carrying the existing colors of a vintage model to the present day. Assuming that Rolex’s attitude on GMT Master II will continue over the years, I think that Batman, with reference 116710BLNR, will have a very important place in the history of Rolex as the father of it’s bezel colors. By stating this I believe over the years Rolex will re-use this colors on new GMT Master II bezels.
So, is the current history of this model and the possibility that it will have a potentially important place in Rolex history in the future are enough reasons to buy this watch? No. If you ask why, the answer is simple: Considering that wristwatches are an accessory, the looks of the watch is important as the watch’s other values. At this point, I think that Batman has successfully overcame the challenge. At the same time, like many models of Rolex, it is a watch that is suitable when worn with a track suit or with a suit.
Besides, when I try a watch for the first time, I look at the watch for many minutes, from every angle, and even examine the clasp for minutes. For me, every part of the watch, every detail is very important. When I wore the Batman for the first time, it was one of the fastest fascinating watches. The second you wear the watch, you feel its weight and high quality craftmanship of Rolex. The watch has a perfect harmony with the dark blue and black bezel. With this bezel decision Rolex made a big innovation color wise. Although such innovations may face negative reactions from time to time, I think Batman has successfully overcame this challenge. Later, like other iconic nicknamed Rolexes (Pepsi, Hulk, Kermit, etc.), it quickly gained a nickname with its colors. It is very important that this nickname gained a personality and character to the watch.
I have heard many times that some people find it unreasonable to buy more than one watch and say, “One Rolex is enough for the lifetime.” If you ask; if Batman is a suitable choice at this point, I think it is not. Batman is a second or third watch for me. Because the watches with more than one color could get boring after using it daily. You might start looking for a new watch after a while. Of course, this is not the end of the world or it does not prevent buying it as a one and only watch. At the end of the day, such watches are not money-wasting, so it is always possible to sell and switch to another watch. In addition to the phrase “not wasting money”, you may even be able to sell it at a higher price than you bought.
To summarize briefly, Batman is a watch that can be enjoyed in any environment and will take place in Rolex history. By comparing the retail price with the market price, is it reasonable to buy today with a price almost 2 times the retail or not? Everyone’s point of view and budget is to themselves, but when I consider the market prices today, I see it as one of the best options in the fifteen thousand dollar band.
