The main difference between the modern “Rolex Batman” and “Rolex Batgirl” is their bracelets. These are the exact same watch, the GMT-Master II reference 126710BLNR, only the Batgirl model comes with the five-link Jubilee bracelet, while the modern Batman model comes with the three-link Oyster bracelet. In this article, we break down every difference, from the bracelets and movement generations to the nicknames and market value, to help you determine which of these blue-and-black Rolex GMTs is right for you.
While today’s argument is a simple matter of bracelet preference, the rich history of the two “BLNR” models is what created the confusion. From technical movement upgrades to slight case design changes, we explore the entire evolution, side-by-side comparison and analysis of the current market to see which is the better investment.
Key Takeaways:
- Batman vs. Batgirl: The debate is about bracelet choice on the current GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLNR. “Batman” equals Oyster bracelet, “Batgirl” equals Jubilee bracelet.
- The Original Batman: The first Batman (Ref. 116710BLNR, 2013-2019) was only on an Oyster bracelet and had an older movement (Calibre 3186).
- The Modern Generation: Both the current Batman and Batgirl (Ref. 126710BLNR, 2019-Present) share the identical 40mm case, black and blue ceramic bezel, and the new-generation Calibre 3285 movement with a 70-hour power reserve.
- Feel & Aesthetics: The Oyster bracelet (Batman) is seen as sporty, robust, and utilitarian. The Jubilee bracelet (Batgirl) is considered more refined, dynamic, and is often described as lighter, more flexible, and more comfortable.
A Tale of Two Bracelets: Decoding the Batman vs. Batgirl Nicknames
The “Batman” nickname first appeared in 2013 when Rolex introduced the first Oyster bracelet version of the Ref. 116710BLNR. This was the first GMT-Master II to have a black and blue ceramic bezel, and the name was quickly adopted by watch forums. It was produced in this configuration unchanged until 2019.
Rolex changed the reference to the new 126710BLNR in 2019 and released it only on a Jubilee bracelet, which surprised many collectors and led to it being dubbed the “Batgirl” to differentiate it from the original. Rolex re-introduced the Oyster bracelet option for the new reference in 2021, so we now have the “modern Batman” as well as the current Oyster vs Jubilee debate for the same watch.
The 3 Rolex BLNR Models Explained
| Nickname | Reference Number | Production Years | Bracelet | Movement |
| “Original Batman” | 116710BLNR | 2013 – 2019 | Oyster | Cal. 3186 |
| “Batgirl” | 126710BLNR | 2019 – Present | Jubilee | Cal. 3285 |
| “Current Batman” | 126710BLNR | 2021 – Present | Oyster | Cal. 3285 |
Head-to-Head: The Modern Rolex Batman vs. Batgirl (Ref. 126710BLNR)
As the table at the top indicates, the current discussion is a head to head comparison of two watches that are identical in all ways except the bracelet. The case, bezel, dial, and movement (Calibre 3285) are the same. It’s all about looks, comfort, and style.
This makes the decision both simple and difficult. Simple because there are no technical differences to weigh. Difficult because the bracelet really transforms the entire look of the watch, from how it sits on your wrist to how it’s perceived by others.
The Bracelet: Sporty Oyster vs. Elegant Jubilee
The “Batman” Oyster Bracelet:
The Oyster bracelet has wide, three-piece links, giving the watch a sportier and more utilitarian appearance. “You can picture Navy SEALs wearing that version,” says watch expert Sam Ray. This is the traditional ready-for-anything Rolex bracelet that has been the brand’s go-to on professional models like the Submariner for decades. It sits flat and robust on the wrist and has a weight and presence that feels substantial. It comes with the Oysterlock safety clasp and Easylink 5mm comfort extension, which allows for quick adjustments during the day.
The “Batgirl” Jubilee Bracelet:
The Jubilee bracelet has five-piece links that are smaller and more fluid, dynamic and elegant. The fine weave catches the light from many more angles and it has a lighter, more refined look that is worlds away from the sporty focus of the Oyster. The general feeling from both collectors and connoisseurs is that the Jubilee takes the prize for comfort. Watch specialist Eli from Watches of Jalter calls it “lighter and more flexible” with a bracelet that hugs the wrist and is “perfect for a GMT” because it is light, comfortable and very refined. But this particular Jubilee is special, because it features the dressy bracelet combined with the heavy-duty Oysterlock safety clasp that you would normally only find on sportier models.
Generational Shift: Original Batman (116710) vs. New Generation (126710)
To collectors and technical enthusiasts, the other question in “Batman vs. Batgirl” isn’t the bracelet at all, it’s the generation. With the newer generation came a better movement and subtle but notable aesthetic upgrades that completely changed the watch.
Most significantly, Rolex swapped the previous Calibre 3186 movement with the next-generation Calibre 3285. A more power-reserve-friendly, efficient, and precise movement. But in addition to the movement, Rolex adjusted some of the case proportions and dial design elements that give this more recent version a more refined look.
Rolex Batman vs. Batgirl: Key Technical Differences
| Feature | “Original Batman” (116710BLNR) | “Batgirl” / “Current Batman” (126710BLNR) |
| Movement | Calibre 3186 | Calibre 3285 (New Generation) |
| Power Reserve | ~48-50 Hours | ~70 Hours |
| Escapement | Swiss lever escapement | Chronergy Escapement (Higher efficiency) |
| Case Lugs | “Super Case” with thicker, broader lugs | Slightly slimmer, more tapered, and refined lugs |
| Dial | “SWISS MADE” at 6 o’clock | “SWISS 👑 MADE” at 6 o’clock (small crown) |
| Bracelet(s) | Oyster Only | Jubilee (“Batgirl”) or Oyster (“Current Batman”) |
Price, Popularity, and Investment: Which BLNR Should You Buy?
The availability of these watches is an important factor to consider before buying one. The demand and the limited supply of the Batman and Batgirl combine with the investment potential of these watches, which are among the most desirable new Rolex sports watches.
Price & Market Value
At retail, both bracelets are priced the same. However, secondary market prices are different. The “Batgirl” version on the Jubilee bracelet experienced significant initial demand when first released in 2019. This was partly because it was the only version released for the first two years, resulting in higher secondary market prices.
However, since Rolex brought back the Oyster bracelet in 2021, prices have equalized between the two and are currently quite similar. The small premiums between them are subject to change based on current demand and availability. The original Batman (Ref. 116710BLNR) from 2013-2019 has often had a premium with collectors who value original first-gen and the history of being the original black and blue ceramic GMT.
Popularity & The “Daily Wear” Debate
It’s a pretty close decision and one based solely on which watch will be more appropriate for daily wear. Both watches have their merits and really it comes down to your lifestyle and wearing style. Watch some video reviews and you’ll see what I mean.
Case for the Batman (Oyster): The 100% brushed side-links on the Oyster bracelet conceal scratches incredibly well which is what makes it such a great low-maintenance day-to-day watch. The tool watch look of Batman also makes it feel more appropriate for real-world, daily, rugged use. Sporty look just works with casual shirts and jeans etc. It’s also designed to take the bumps and scrapes of life and not show it.
Case for the Batgirl (Jubilee): Many experts agree the Jubilee wins for comfort. Its smaller, lighter links and intricate design are excellent at hiding minor scratches and scuffs, and its refined feel makes it a perfect all-day travel watch. The increased flexibility allows it to conform to your wrist movements better, so for many it is more comfortable for a long period of wear, even when traveling across time zones.
Expert Opinions: The Bob’s Watches Team & Friends Weigh In
The “Batman vs. Batgirl” debate isn’t just about the specs. It’s an often spirited discussion among collectors, enthusiasts, and industry experts. We gathered our team at Bob’s Watches along with watch specialists Eli from Watches of Jalter and Sam Ray from SamRayGTR to get their definitive takes on this divisive topic.
Rob – @spanishrob
I just cannot picture the Jubilee bracelet version being called the Batman. I love that it is called the Batgirl, and it will forever be the Batgirl to me. I just love that together as a community, we came up with that name and it makes so much sense – especially considering that not everything in this community always makes sense – but somehow, someone came up with it, everyone was like “that really works” and people just went with it. For that reason, I can’t ever call the Jubilee bracelet version of the BLNR anything except the Batgirl.
I purchased the original Batman on an Oyster bracelet back in 2018, but it wasn’t something that I chose because I was in love with it, but rather because the opportunity came up at the right time. However, I didn’t realize how much I was going to fall in love with that watch. There is an argument to be made about how the Batman on an Oyster bracelet is possibly the most perfect modern Rolex (in my opinion), and while the Oyster bracelet was never something that initially appealed to me, once I actually owned the watch, I found that the Oyster just suited it so well. For me, it’s Oyster on the Batman and Jubilee on the Pepsi, so when it comes to which bracelet specifically for the Batman, I am 120% for the Oyster.
– Rob’s Favorite: Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR (Oyster Bracelet)
Eli – @watchesofgibraltar
I’ve heard that the reason for one model being called the Batman and the other the Batgirl has to do with the fact that the Jubilee bracelet is slightly more feminine – I don’t know if the watch community agrees with that or not, but I understand that it’s at least some of the reasoning behind the watches having two different nicknames. The introduction of the Oyster bracelet on the full stainless steel models does make things a bit more complicated, but despite the changes to the movement and all that, I think it still depends on the bracelet. If the watch is on a Jubilee bracelet then I call it the Batgirl, and if it’s on an Oyster then I call it the Batman.
I own the Batgirl, and in terms of comfort, the Jubilee bracelet is top-notch. The GMT is essentially a watch made for traveling, so having that aspect of added comfort is fantastic – especially during the summer months when you are dealing with hotter temperatures. The Jubilee bracelet is very comfortable and sits quite freely on the wrist. After some time spent actually looking at the watch, it perhaps appears a bit more robust on the Oyster, but in terms of comfort, I’ll definitely go with the Jubilee.
– Eli’s Favorite: Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR (Jubilee Bracelet)
Sam – @samray_gtr
I think calling the Jubilee bracelet version the Batgirl can be a good talking point when introducing the watch to different types of people (such as my wife). When I told her I’d be talking about the Rolex Batman and Batgirl, she was more intrigued because she thought it might be a woman’s watch or a watch that would be more relatable to women. The Batgirl nickname for the Jubilee bracelet version can be a good way to get more people into this hobby by engaging different genders and making everything a bit more gender-neutral.
I definitely prefer the newer model on the Jubilee bracelet; it just seems more dynamic and the look of it is much more satisfying to photograph. The color of blue is a bit more refined and it just looks more mature and maybe possibly a shade darker. On the older models from 2013, the shade of blue just doesn’t work for me for some reason – it just seems a bit more cartoon-like, which is fitting for the Batman nickname, but I still prefer the new one. I’ve seen it on the Oyster bracelet in person a couple times, but to me personally, it just seems a little more sterile and I just prefer it on the Jubilee.
– Sam’s Favorite: Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR (Jubilee Bracelet)
Ripley – @ripley.sellers
I’m not a big fan of the Batgirl nickname. I think the name itself makes sense and helps with general shorthand, but within the context of other GMT-Master nicknames, it just doesn’t work. Every red and blue GMT insert is known as a Pepsi and anything with brown is often called a Root Beer (even though not everyone agrees with that), so it seems weird to now start differentiating between the different black and blue GMT watches. The Batgirl nickname isn’t going anywhere, but if we are going to call the Jubilee bracelet model the Batgirl, then we need to start calling the Oyster bracelet version of the ref. 126710BLNR something different like the “Batman Beyond” or the “Batman Returns” – and then we also need to start differentiating between the different Pepsi models… Diet Pepsi? Pepsi Max? At what point does it end?
I prefer the Oyster bracelet for the Batman from a purely aesthetic standpoint. However, at the same time, if you already own a ceramic Submariner or a Sea-Dweller, then the Jubilee bracelet version is a bit more unique – especially for that person who might already have a few modern Rolex sports watches in their collection.
– Ripley’s Favorite: Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR
Justin – @abeautifulwrist
Now that they offer the GMT-Master II reference 126710BLNR with both bracelet styles, the whole Batgirl nickname is a bit of a moot point. Even when the Jubilee bracelet version was first announced in 2019, I didn’t necessarily feel that we needed a whole new nickname for the watch, and now that you can order the current model with either the Oyster or Jubilee, can’t they just all be called Batman watches?
I think the Jubilee is a little more refined. It’s a little nicer and it just feels a little more elevated, while the Oyster feels more utilitarian. Neither one is better or worse than the other, but it ultimately comes down to individual usage and personal preference. It is two different camps of people and it can also depend on the specific watch. I think the Jubilee is a great pairing with the GMT in general and if we were talking about the Pepsi version, then I might have a different answer. However, when it comes to the Batman, I think I still prefer the Oyster bracelet.
– Justin’s Favorite: Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 116710BLNR
The Final Verdict: Why the Rolex BLNR Remains a Legend
Whether you land on the robust, utilitarian Batman or the refined, dynamic Batgirl, you are choosing one of the most iconic and capable timepieces in modern watchmaking. The debate itself, as our experts show, is a testament to the passion Rolex inspires and the subtle design differences that can completely change a watch’s character. The fact that simply swapping a bracelet can transform the entire personality of a watch speaks to the thoughtfulness of Rolex’s design philosophy.
The “best” choice is the one that sits on your wrist and speaks to your personal style. At Bob’s Watches, we’ve helped thousands of collectors find their perfect timepiece, and our experts are always here to guide you through our extensive collection of pre-owned Rolex watches. Whether you’re drawn to the sporty heritage of the Oyster or the elegant comfort of the Jubilee, both versions of the BLNR represent the pinnacle of travel watch design.
