The Rolex GMT-Master II "Batman," reference 116710, has achieved legendary status among watch enthusiasts. Its striking black and blue Cerachrom bezel, referencing the dual-time functionality, coupled with Rolex's unparalleled reputation for quality and craftsmanship, has solidified its place as a highly sought-after timepiece. However, the question on many collectors' minds is: is the Rolex Batman discontinued? The short answer is complex. While it's no longer readily available through authorized retailers, officially declaring it "discontinued" requires a nuanced understanding of Rolex's notoriously opaque production and distribution strategies.
The difficulty in acquiring a 116710 GMT-Master II hasn't been a recent phenomenon. For years, prospective buyers faced extensive waitlists at authorized dealers. This scarcity, combined with the watch's inherent desirability, fueled its legendary status and significantly inflated its grey market price. The extended wait times, however, didn't automatically equate to discontinuation. As long as Rolex continued to produce the watch, even in limited quantities, there remained a glimmer of hope for those patiently waiting their turn.
The situation changed with the introduction of its successor, the reference 126710BLRO. This newer model boasts several improvements, including a redesigned movement (the Calibre 3285) with a longer power reserve, a slightly updated case, and subtle refinements to the overall aesthetic. The shift to the 126710BLRO naturally reduced the production emphasis on the 116710, further exacerbating its scarcity. This transition, however, doesn't necessarily confirm the 116710's discontinuation, as Rolex often maintains a staggered production run for models, especially those with a strong following.
116710 vs 126710: A Detailed Comparison
Understanding the differences between the 116710 and the 126710 is crucial in assessing the "discontinued" status of the Batman. While both share the iconic black and blue bezel, several key distinctions exist:
* Movement: The 116710 utilizes the Calibre 3186, while the 126710 features the newer Calibre 3285. The 3285 offers a significant upgrade, boasting a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours compared to the 3186's 48 hours. This extended power reserve is a major advantage for frequent travelers or those who might not wear the watch daily.
* Case: Subtle differences exist in the case design. While not drastically different, the 126710 showcases minor adjustments to the lugs and overall proportions, often described as slightly more refined and contemporary.
* Bracelet: Both models typically come equipped with a robust Oyster bracelet, but slight differences in the clasp and end links might be present depending on the year of production.
* Price: The 126710BLRO commanded a higher retail price upon its release, reflecting the improvements in the movement and other refinements. However, the discontinued 116710 now trades at a significantly higher price on the secondary market due to its scarcity.
The introduction of the 126710BLRO essentially rendered the 116710 obsolete in terms of new production, effectively making it harder, if not impossible, to acquire through official channels. This shift in focus by Rolex strongly suggests that the 116710 is no longer in active production.
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