Quick Overview
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR (2013–2019) and 126710BLNR (2019–present) are two generations of the “Batman” — Rolex's blue/black ceramic GMT that became one of the most hyped modern sport watches. The 116710BLNR was a landmark: it debuted the world's first two-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert, a technical breakthrough in ceramic manufacturing. The 126710BLNR built on that foundation with the Cal. 3285 movement bringing 70-hour power reserve, hand-winding, and the Chronergy escapement — plus the introduction of the Jubilee bracelet to the modern GMT-Master II lineup.
Full Specification Comparison
Below is a complete side-by-side specification table for the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR and 126710BLNR, compiled from our watch reference database. Every data point is sourced from factory specifications, trusted collector references, and verified production records.
| Specification | Ref. 116710BLNR | Ref. 126710BLNR |
|---|---|---|
| Production Years | 2013–2019 | 2019–present |
| Introduced | Baselworld 2013 | Baselworld 2019 |
| Nicknames | Batman | Batman / Batgirl |
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 40mm(same) |
| Case Thickness | ~12.1mm | ~12.1mm(same) |
| Lug-to-Lug | ~48.6mm | ~47.5mm |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm(same) |
| Case Material | 904L Oystersteel | 904L Oystersteel(same) |
| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m(same) |
| Movement | Calibre 3186 | Calibre 3285 |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph (4 Hz) | 28,800 vph (4 Hz)(same) |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Jewels | 31 | 31(same) |
| Hacking Seconds | Yes | Yes(same) |
| Hand-Winding | No | Yes |
| Chronometer | COSC Superlative | COSC Superlative (-2/+2 s/day)(same) |
| Hairspring | Parachrom Bleu | Parachrom Bleu(same) |
| Escapement | Swiss lever | Chronergy |
| Shock Protection | Paraflex | Paraflex(same) |
| Crown Guards | Rounded | Integrated |
| Crystal | Sapphire + Cyclops | Sapphire + Cyclops(same) |
| AR Coating | Inner side | Inner side(same) |
| Bezel Insert | Cerachrom blue/black | Cerachrom blue/black(same) |
| Bezel Numerals | Platinum PVD | Platinum PVD(same) |
| Crown | Twinlock screw-down | Twinlock screw-down(same) |
| Rehaut | Engraved ROLEX | Engraved ROLEX(same) |
| Dial Color | Black lacquer | Black lacquer(same) |
| Lume Material | Chromalight (blue) | Chromalight (blue)(same) |
| GMT Hand | Green arrow | Green arrow(same) |
| Launch Bracelet | Oyster only | Jubilee only (Oyster added ~2021) |
| Clasp (Oyster) | Oysterlock + Easylink 5mm | Oysterlock + Easylink 5mm(same) |
| Clasp (Jubilee) | N/A | Crownclasp + Easylink 5mm |
| End Links | Solid | Solid(same) |
| Launch MSRP | ~$8,950 USD (2013) | $9,700 USD (2019) |
| Predecessor | Ref. 116710LN | Ref. 116710BLNR |
| Successor | Ref. 126710BLNR | Current production |
Data sourced from the Watch Reference Map catalogue. Specifications confirmed against multiple collector references and factory sources.
Movement: Calibre 3186 vs Calibre 3285
This is where the generational leap is most significant. The Cal. 3285 represents the most substantial movement upgrade in GMT-Master II history, bringing improvements that collectors had requested for years — most notably hand-winding and a dramatically longer power reserve.
Calibre 3186
Used in Ref. 116710BLNR (2013–2019)
- 28,800 vph (4 Hz) frequency
- 48-hour power reserve (~2 days)
- 31 jewels
- Hacking seconds
- No hand-winding
- COSC Superlative Chronometer
- Parachrom Bleu hairspring
- Standard Swiss lever escapement
- Paraflex shock absorbers
Calibre 3285
Used in Ref. 126710BLNR (2019–present)
- 28,800 vph (4 Hz) frequency
- 70-hour power reserve (~3 days)
- 31 jewels
- Hacking seconds
- Hand-winding via crown
- COSC Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 s/day)
- Parachrom Bleu hairspring
- Chronergy escapement (15% more efficient)
- Paraflex shock absorbers
Case Architecture
Both references share the same 40mm Oyster case diameter, 904L Oystersteel construction, and 100m water resistance. The differences are in the details: crown guard shape and lug-to-lug distance.
| Dimension | 116710BLNR | 126710BLNR | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 40mm | 40mm (same) | No change |
| Thickness | ~12.1mm | ~12.1mm (same) | No change |
| Lug-to-Lug | ~48.6mm | ~47.5mm | -1.1mm shorter |
| Crown Guards | Rounded | Integrated | Redesigned |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm (same) | No change |
| Material | 904L Oystersteel | 904L Oystersteel (same) | No change |
| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m (same) | No change |
Bezel: Two Generations of Blue/Black Ceramic
Both references feature the same blue/black bi-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel — but the 116710BLNR was the one that made history.
The Original Batman
Cerachrom ever
- • First-ever two-color ceramic bezel (2013)
- • Single monolithic ceramic piece — NOT two pieces bonded
- • Platinum PVD-coated 24-hour numerals
- • Technical breakthrough in ceramic manufacturing
- • Bidirectional 24-hour rotation
The Current Batman
manufacturing
- • Same blue/black color combination
- • Single monolithic Cerachrom ceramic piece
- • Platinum PVD-coated 24-hour numerals
- • Updated manufacturing process
- • Bidirectional 24-hour rotation
Dial, Lume & Hands
The dials are virtually identical between the two references — this is one of the most visually similar generational transitions in the Rolex lineup. Both feature black lacquer dials with applied 18K white gold hour markers, Chromalight luminous material (blue glow), green “GMT-MASTER II” text, and the signature green arrow GMT hand.
| Detail | 116710BLNR | 126710BLNR |
|---|---|---|
| Dial Color | Black lacquer | Black lacquer(same) |
| Index Material | 18K white gold + Chromalight | 18K white gold + Chromalight(same) |
| Lume Material | Chromalight (blue) | Chromalight (blue)(same) |
| Lume Glow | Blue (~8h) | Blue (~8h)(same) |
| GMT-MASTER II Text | Green | Green(same) |
| GMT Hand | Green arrow | Green arrow(same) |
| Hour Hand | Mercedes | Mercedes(same) |
| Minute Hand | Baton | Baton(same) |
| 6 o'clock Marking | SWISS MADE → SWISS ♛ MADE | SWISS ♛ MADE |
| Date Aperture | 3 o'clock + Cyclops | 3 o'clock + Cyclops(same) |
| Date Disc | White with black numerals | White with black numerals(same) |
Bracelet: Oyster vs Jubilee
The bracelet is arguably the most noticeable external difference between the two Batmans. The 116710BLNR was only available on the Oyster bracelet. The 126710BLNR launched on the Jubilee — a significant departure that generated strong opinions in the collecting community.
Oyster Only
- • Oyster bracelet — no other option
- • Three-link flat design, brushed outer / polished center
- • Oysterlock fold clasp
- • Easylink 5mm comfort extension
- • Solid end links, 904L Oystersteel
- • Sporty, tool-watch aesthetic
Jubilee (launch) + Oyster
- • Jubilee — five-link design, polished center
- • Hidden Crownclasp (cleaner look than Oysterlock)
- • Easylink 5mm comfort extension
- • Oyster option added ~2021
- • Solid end links, 904L Oystersteel
- • Jubilee adds a dressier, more refined aesthetic
Production Timeline
The Batman bezel is part of the broader Cal. 3285 refresh that replaced the entire Cerachrom-era GMT lineup. Here is the full steel GMT-Master II timeline for context:
The Cal. 3285 generation also includes precious metal variants:
| Reference | Material | Bezel | Nickname |
|---|---|---|---|
| 126710BLNR | Oystersteel | Blue/Black | Batman / Batgirl |
| 126710BLRO | Oystersteel | Blue/Red | Pepsi |
| 126720VTNR | Oystersteel (left-crown) | Green/Black | Sprite / Destro |
| 126711CHNR | Everose Rolesor | Brown/Black | Root Beer |
| 126719BLRO | 18k White Gold | Blue/Red | White Gold Pepsi |
| 126715CHNR | 18k Everose Gold | Brown/Black | Everose Root Beer |
| 126718GRNR | 18k Yellow Gold | Green/Black | Gold Sprite |
Explore the complete GMT-Master II family — every reference from 1954 to present — on our interactive timeline explorer.
How to Tell a 116710BLNR from a 126710BLNR
These are two of the most visually similar Rolex generational transitions — same case size, same bezel color, same dial. Here is a ranked checklist for identification:
Check the reference number between the lugs
Remove the bracelet at 12 o'clock and read the reference: '116710 BLNR' vs '126710 BLNR'. This is the only 100% definitive identifier.
Look at the bracelet type
If it's on a Jubilee bracelet, it's a 126710BLNR — the 116710BLNR was never offered on Jubilee. If it's on an Oyster, it could be either reference. Note: bracelets can be swapped aftermarket, so this isn't conclusive on its own.
Try hand-winding the crown
With the crown in position 0 (fully screwed down, then unscrewed one click), try winding clockwise. The 126710BLNR will wind the mainspring; the 116710BLNR will not — the crown will spin freely without resistance.
Examine the crown guards from the side
The 126710BLNR has integrated crown guards that flow into the case contour. The 116710BLNR has more traditional rounded crown guards. This is visible with careful side-by-side comparison.
Check the clasp type (Jubilee models)
The 126710BLNR on Jubilee uses a Crownclasp (hidden fold clasp). Look for the small Rolex crown emblem on the clasp — the Crownclasp is distinctly different from the Oysterlock.
Compare lug-to-lug length
The 116710BLNR has a ~48.6mm lug-to-lug vs ~47.5mm on the 126710BLNR — a 1.1mm difference. This requires precise measurement and is not practical for quick identification.
Which One Should You Buy?
Both are outstanding GMT watches with the same iconic blue/black bezel. The 126710BLNR is objectively the more capable watch, but the 116710BLNR has its own compelling arguments.
Choose the 116710BLNR if…
- You want the original Batman — the first-ever two-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel in watchmaking history
- You prefer the Oyster-only identity — the 116710BLNR was always on Oyster, giving it a distinct sporting character
- You value historical significance — a discontinued reference that marked a ceramic technology milestone
- Secondary market price may offer better valuecompared to retail waitlists for the 126710BLNR
Choose the 126710BLNR if…
- You want the 70-hour power reserve — nearly three days off-wrist vs two days on the 116710BLNR
- You want hand-winding — the ability to wind the watch manually if it stops, without a winder
- You want the Jubilee bracelet option — a more refined, dressier look with the hidden Crownclasp
- You want a current-production watch with full Rolex warranty and the flexibility to choose Jubilee or Oyster
Explore on Watch Reference Map
This guide covers the key differences between these two Batman references, but there's much more to explore. Watch Reference Map lets you explore the complete GMT-Master II lineage — from the 1954 Ref. 6542 to the current 126710 family — on an interactive Gantt-style timeline. For every reference you can:
- See exact production periods visualized on an interactive timeline
- Compare Batman, Pepsi, Sprite, and Root Beer side by side
- Explore variant details: Jubilee vs Oyster, dial transitions, and production dates
- Track the movement evolution from Cal. 3085 to 3285 across five decades
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Rolex 116710BLNR and 126710BLNR?
The 126710BLNR replaced the 116710BLNR in 2019 as the current-generation 'Batman' GMT-Master II. Key differences: the 126710BLNR uses the Cal. 3285 movement with 70-hour power reserve (up from 48h on the Cal. 3186), adds hand-winding capability, features the Chronergy escapement, has integrated (vs rounded) crown guards, launched on Jubilee bracelet (Oyster added later), and has a slightly shorter lug-to-lug (47.5mm vs 48.6mm). Both share the same 40mm case, blue/black Cerachrom ceramic bezel, 904L Oystersteel, and Chromalight lume.
What is the 'Batman' and 'Batgirl' Rolex?
The 'Batman' nickname refers to Rolex GMT-Master II models with the blue/black Cerachrom bezel — the color scheme evoking the Dark Knight. The original 116710BLNR (2013–2019) was the first 'Batman,' worn on an Oyster bracelet. When the 126710BLNR launched in 2019 on a Jubilee bracelet only, collectors nicknamed it the 'Batgirl.' When Rolex later added an Oyster bracelet option (~2021), the 'Batman' name was reclaimed for the Oyster version, while the Jubilee version retained the 'Batgirl' nickname.
Does the Rolex 126710BLNR have hand-winding?
Yes. The 126710BLNR's Cal. 3285 features hand-winding via the crown — a first for the GMT-Master II line. The earlier 116710BLNR's Cal. 3186 does not have hand-winding. This means you can manually wind the 126710BLNR to full power reserve if it has stopped, without needing to shake or wear the watch. This is particularly useful for watches that sit unworn for more than two days.
What does BLNR mean on a Rolex GMT?
BLNR stands for 'Bleu Noir,' French for 'blue-black.' It denotes the blue/black Cerachrom ceramic bezel color combination. Similarly, BLRO = Bleu Rouge (blue/red 'Pepsi'), CHNR = Chocolat Noir (brown/black 'Root Beer'), and LN = Lunette Noire (black bezel). These French suffixes are Rolex's system for identifying bezel colorways.
Is the Rolex Batman on Jubilee or Oyster bracelet?
Both. The 126710BLNR launched in 2019 on a Jubilee bracelet only (nicknamed 'Batgirl'). Rolex added the Oyster bracelet option around 2021, allowing buyers to choose. The original 116710BLNR (2013–2019) was only available on an Oyster bracelet. On the secondary market, the Jubilee version tends to command a slight premium due to its distinctive look and the fact that the original 'Batman' was Oyster-only.
What is the power reserve difference between Batman models?
The 116710BLNR has a 48-hour power reserve (Cal. 3186), while the 126710BLNR has a 70-hour power reserve (Cal. 3285) — a 46% increase. This means the 126710BLNR can sit unworn for nearly three full days before stopping, compared to two days for the 116710BLNR. The extra reserve comes from a redesigned mainspring barrel and the more efficient Chronergy escapement.
When was the original Rolex Batman 116710BLNR discontinued?
The 116710BLNR was discontinued in 2019 when Rolex introduced the 126710BLNR at Baselworld. The 116710BLNR had a 6-year production run (2013–2019) and was a landmark reference as the first-ever two-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel. Since discontinuation, prices on the secondary market have remained strong, particularly for clean examples with complete box and papers.
Is the bezel on the 116710BLNR and 126710BLNR the same?
The blue/black color combination is the same, and both use Rolex's Cerachrom ceramic technology — a single monolithic ceramic piece with two distinct colors (not two pieces bonded together). However, there are subtle differences: the 126710BLNR's bezel has a slightly different shade profile and the demarcation line between blue and black may appear marginally different due to updated ceramic manufacturing processes. In practice, they look virtually identical at normal viewing distances.
Can you swap the bracelet on a Rolex 126710BLNR?
Yes. Both the Jubilee and Oyster bracelets use the same 20mm lug width and are interchangeable on the 126710BLNR. Some owners purchase both bracelets to switch between the sportier Oyster and dressier Jubilee depending on the occasion. The 116710BLNR also has 20mm lugs, so the newer Oyster bracelet can technically fit, though subtle case shape differences may affect the end link fit.
Is the Rolex 116710BLNR a good investment?
The 116710BLNR has maintained strong secondary market values since its 2019 discontinuation. As the first-ever two-color Cerachrom ceramic bezel and the original 'Batman,' it has historical significance that supports long-term collector interest. Prices vary based on condition, year of production, and whether box/papers are included. However, watch values fluctuate with market conditions — it should be viewed primarily as a watch to enjoy rather than a financial instrument.