The Rolex GMT-Master II "Batman" (reference 116710BLNR) has cemented its place in horological history as one of the most sought-after and iconic sports watches ever produced. Its distinctive two-tone blue and black Cerachrom bezel, coupled with Rolex's legendary reliability and craftsmanship, has captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike. However, this popularity has significantly impacted its price, creating a complex and fascinating price trend that we will explore in detail. This article will dissect the retail and market price, examine the model's specifications, trace its historical price trends, and analyze its potential as an investment, touching upon relevant search terms like "Rolex Batman cost," "Rolex Batman price chart," "Batman Rolex watch cost," "Rolex GMT Master lowest price," "Rolex Batman price UK," "Rolex GMT price list," "Rolex GMT Batman investment," and "Rolex GMT 116710 price."
Model Specifications and Historical Context:
The Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR, affectionately nicknamed the "Batman" due to its blue and black bezel reminiscent of the superhero's costume, was introduced in 2013. This model represented a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a robust 40mm Oyster case in stainless steel, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the aforementioned Cerachrom bezel insert – a ceramic insert known for its exceptional durability and color retention. The watch houses the caliber 3186, a self-winding mechanical movement with a 50-hour power reserve, boasting Rolex's Superlative Chronometer certification. The independent 24-hour hand allows for the tracking of a second time zone, a key feature of the GMT-Master line. This combination of functionality, design, and robust construction solidified its position as a highly desirable timepiece.
Retail Price and Market Price Fluctuations:
The original retail price of the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR upon its release was significantly lower than its current market value. While precise figures vary slightly depending on region and retailer, it generally sat in the range of $8,000-$9,000 USD. This price, already considered high for a stainless steel sports watch, pales in comparison to its current market value.
The market price, however, tells a very different story. The Batman's popularity exploded almost immediately upon release, driven by a confluence of factors: its striking design, its robust build quality, Rolex's reputation for exclusivity, and significant media attention. This surge in demand quickly outstripped supply, leading to a dramatic increase in the grey market price. The watch rapidly became difficult to obtain at authorized retailers, pushing buyers towards the secondary market, where prices escalated significantly.
Currently, the market price for a pre-owned Rolex GMT-Master II 116710BLNR varies depending on condition, box and papers (original packaging and documentation), and the specific retailer. However, expect to pay significantly above the original retail price – often in the range of $15,000-$20,000 USD or even more for pristine examples. This represents a substantial premium, reflecting the strong demand and limited availability.
Rolex Batman Price Chart (Illustrative):
While a precise, publicly available price chart for the 116710BLNR is difficult to compile due to the decentralized nature of the secondary market, we can illustrate the general trend:
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