Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual, Date, GMT-Master II, Ref. 116710BLNR, Case No. 8T4C7714, Circa 2016

Launched in the mid 1950’s, the Rolex GMT-Master quickly became a true favourite for collectors and is considered today a landmark model of the Geneva manufacture. Commissioned by Pan Am in order for their pilots to manage the negative effects of jet-lag, the GMT-Master was developed with a second hand, enabling its wearer to keep track of both the local time and time of their home time zone. The watch was also developed with a bezel graduated for 24 hours, which throughout the years featured a variety of colours.

Introduced at Baselworld in 2013, the Rolex GMT Master II reference 116710BLNR (for bleu, noir, French for blue, black) is the first GMT-Master to be crafted with the blue and black colour combination on its bezel. A highly complicated piece to manufacture, the creation process for this cerachrom bezel is patented and results from a singular piece of blue ceramic, with the black colour later applied to provide this two-tone effect. Of additional interest, the numerals engraved on the two-tone bezel are covered with a thin layer of platinum.

Highly sought-after, the timepiece was nicknamed “Batman” by collectors due to its unique bezel colour combination. Offered with its guarantee and accessories, the wristwatch was part of the collection of an important private European collector and has been part of his cherished possessions throughout the years.