If you don’t know, the Rolex Batman is the blue and black Rolex GMT-Master II model, which gets its nickname from being the same color as the Dark Knight comic book character. On the other hand, the Rolex Coke is the GMT-Master II model with a black and red bezel. Both are loved by replica Rolex collectors worldwide and offer a different take on the collection’s classic split-color design.
Now, when it comes to comparing these two models, things can get a little tricky. The Rolex Batman GMT-Master II – number 126710BLNR – remains Rolex’s most popular watch. 126710BLNR – is still in production today. The Coca-Cola GMT-Master, however, was produced from 1989 to 2007. So, to put their head to head, we will compare the new Rolex Batman GMT-Master II with the latest iteration of the Rolex Coke GMT-Master II, the reference 16710.
So what are the defining characteristics of the modern Rolex Batman GMT-Master II model, the 126710BLNR? There are two main points. First is the blue and black Cerachrom (also known as ceramic) bezel with engraved numerals and indexes. The combination of blue and black is still considered relatively new and noteworthy among collectors, especially with the durable ceramic upgrade we see in the modern generation of the GMT-Master II collection. The Batman bezel is also a first, marking the first time Rolex has produced a two-tone ceramic bezel.
Then there’s the strap. 2019 sees fake Rolex launch an all-stainless steel version of the Batman GMT with a formal, elegant Jubilee strap. Before that, it was only available on the sportier three-piece bracelet Oyster strap. While die-hard Rolex fans were a bit disappointed that they didn’t opt for the original Oyster strap, they were finally vindicated with the return of the Oyster strap Batman in 2021. Accompanied by the new Cal. 3285 movement, this beautiful upgrade makes this watch stand out from the rest.
Although the Rolex Coke GMT is no longer in production, it does have an illustrious history of nearly 25 years. In addition to the classic red and blue (Pepsi) and all-black bezel, the red and black “Coke” insert is named for its resemblance to the iconic soda maker’s bottle.
The GMT-Master II Coke is an awe-inspiring and striking replica watch whose iconic red and black bezel first appeared on the inaugural GMT-Master II Reference 16760 in the 1980s, making it a highly collectible icon to this day. But what exactly makes this model different from the latest and greatest Batman? Well, a few things.
The Coca-Cola GMT-Master II 16710 has an aluminum bezel, just like all the other fake Rolex watches that came before the Cerachrom. It was one of the last GMT-Master II models to feature an aluminum bezel before being replaced by ceramic in this generation of the GMT-Master II, which first started appearing in 2005. It makes this black and red bezel highly collectible today. The GMT-Master II ref. 16710 also predates the era of “Super” cases and “Maxi” dials, including more significant hour markers and hands, wider lugs, and crown protection. Similar to the modern Rolex “Batman,” the Ref. 16710 is also available with either a Jubilee or Oyster strap.
The Rolex Coke Ref. 16710 features aluminum instead of Cerachrom, smaller hour markers, and a sleeker case. On the other hand, the Batman Rolex is slightly more robust, with more extensive, more modern features on the dial, more lustrous ceramic, and a more innovative style of case and bracelet.