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The year 2019 saw its fair share of shake-ups in the Rolex universe, with certain models being retired and making way for new iterations and innovations. The anticipation and subsequent announcement of these discontinuations always create a buzz within the watch collecting community, driving up prices for the outgoing models and sparking debates about the future direction of the Crown. One particular model’s fate, the Rolex GMT-Master II "Batman," was a subject of intense speculation and proved to be one of the most talked-about transitions of the year. This article will delve into the discontinued Rolex models of 2019, focusing particularly on the "Batman" and exploring the broader context of Rolex's strategic decisions regarding its product line. We will also touch upon other models, the nuances of their discontinuation, and the lasting impact these decisions have on the Rolex market and collector sentiment. We will cover information related to Rolex discontinued models; Rolex watch release date; Rolex Sky-Dweller discontinued; Rolex Explorer model; Rolex Explorer release date; and Rolex Sky-Dweller release date.

The Batman's Transformation: A Discontinuation with a Twist

The Rolex GMT-Master II reference 116710BLNR, affectionately nicknamed the "Batman" due to its striking blue and black Cerachrom bezel, was indeed a prime candidate for discontinuation in 2019. Released in 2013, it held a significant place in Rolex's history as the first watch to feature a two-tone ceramic bezel. Achieving the bi-color effect on a single piece of ceramic was a considerable technical feat, showcasing Rolex's commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.

The rumor mill was churning well before Baselworld 2019 (now known as Watches & Wonders Geneva), predicting the Batman's demise. The expectation stemmed from the model's age, the possibility of an update to the movement, and the general trend of Rolex refreshing its collections. The collective watch community braced itself for the inevitable farewell.

And, in a way, the premonitions proved true. The ref. 116710BLNR was, in fact, discontinued. *However*, the story didn't end there. Rolex, in its characteristic fashion, didn't simply retire the Batman to the archives. Instead, it reintroduced it, reborn and revitalized, as the ref. 126710BLNR.

This new iteration maintained the iconic blue and black bezel that defined the Batman's appeal, but with a crucial difference: it was now paired with a Jubilee bracelet. This seemingly small change had a profound impact on the watch's overall aesthetic and feel. The Jubilee bracelet, known for its comfort and elegant five-link design, elevated the Batman from a sporty tool watch to a more refined and versatile timepiece.

Furthermore, the new ref. 126710BLNR also received an upgrade to the Caliber 3285 movement. This next-generation movement boasted improved accuracy, efficiency, and a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The Caliber 3285 also incorporates Rolex's Chronergy escapement, which is optimized for energy efficiency and reliability.

Therefore, the "discontinuation" of the Batman was more of a strategic evolution. Rolex retired the specific combination of the blue and black bezel with the Oyster bracelet, replacing it with a visually similar yet significantly enhanced model. This move allowed Rolex to capitalize on the Batman's popularity while simultaneously introducing advancements in both design and technology.

Why the "Batman" Mattered: A Look Back at the 116710BLNR

Before moving on to other potential discontinuations, it's worth emphasizing the significance of the original 116710BLNR "Batman." Its release in 2013 was a landmark moment for Rolex for several key reasons:

* Ceramic Bezel Innovation: As mentioned earlier, the two-tone Cerachrom bezel was a groundbreaking achievement. Creating a bezel with two distinct colors that are perfectly bonded and resistant to fading, scratching, and corrosion required significant advancements in materials science and manufacturing processes. This innovation solidified Rolex's position as a leader in watchmaking technology.

* Modern GMT-Master II Design: The 116710BLNR represented a contemporary evolution of the GMT-Master II design. It featured a "Super Case" with broader lugs and crown guards, giving the watch a more substantial presence on the wrist. The maxi dial, with its larger hour markers and hands, improved legibility.

* Popularity and Collectibility: The "Batman" quickly became one of the most sought-after Rolex models. Its striking color combination, coupled with its robust construction and GMT functionality, made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors. Even after its "discontinuation," the 116710BLNR retained its value and remains a desirable watch in the secondary market.

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