rolex gmt 2 blau schwarz | Rolex gmt master ii manual

The Rolex GMT-Master II "Blau Schwarz," affectionately nicknamed the "Batman" by enthusiasts, is a horological icon. This striking timepiece, with its instantly recognizable blue and black Cerachrom bezel, transcends mere functionality, representing a blend of technical prowess, enduring style, and adventurous spirit. This article delves into the intricacies of the Rolex GMT-Master II Blau Schwarz, exploring its history, design, functionality, and its enduring appeal in the world of luxury watches.

A Legacy of Aviation and Global Exploration

The Rolex GMT-Master's origins are deeply rooted in the world of aviation. In the 1950s, as transatlantic air travel gained prominence, Pan American Airways (Pan Am) approached Rolex with a specific need: a watch capable of displaying multiple time zones simultaneously. Pilots navigating long-haul flights needed a reliable and legible way to track both local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), essential for coordinating flight operations.rolex gmt 2 blau schwarz

Rolex responded with the GMT-Master in 1954, a groundbreaking watch that quickly became a symbol of the jet age. The original GMT-Master featured a rotating bezel marked with 24-hour graduations and a dedicated 24-hour hand, allowing pilots to easily track a second time zone. This innovative design addressed a critical need for aviators and solidified Rolex's reputation for producing practical and reliable tools.

The GMT-Master II, introduced in 1982, marked a significant evolution. It featured a key improvement: the independent setting of the 24-hour hand. Unlike the original GMT-Master, where the 24-hour hand was linked to the main hour hand, the GMT-Master II allowed the wearer to adjust the 24-hour hand independently, enabling the tracking of a third time zone. This enhanced functionality cemented the GMT-Master II as the ultimate travel companion for globetrotters and professionals alike.

The "Batman" Takes Flight: The Rise of the Blau Schwarz

The specific model we're focusing on, the GMT-Master II "Blau Schwarz," refers to the version featuring the captivating blue and black Cerachrom bezel. This color combination wasn't always readily available. While earlier GMT-Master II models featured aluminum bezels in various color combinations, the introduction of Cerachrom (Rolex's proprietary ceramic) in 2005 revolutionized the bezel landscape. Cerachrom is exceptionally resistant to scratches, fading, and the effects of UV light, ensuring the bezel retains its vibrant color and pristine appearance for years to come.

The challenge, however, lay in producing a single-piece ceramic bezel in two distinct colors. This seemingly simple feat required significant advancements in materials science and manufacturing techniques. Rolex overcame this obstacle, debuting the first two-tone Cerachrom bezel – the blue and black "Blau Schwarz" – in 2013 on the 116710BLNR model.

The "Batman" nickname quickly gained traction within the watch community, owing to the bezel's color scheme resembling the Dark Knight's iconic costume. This playful moniker further cemented the "Blau Schwarz" GMT-Master II's popularity and desirability.

Design and Features: A Closer Look at the Details

The Rolex GMT-Master II Blau Schwarz is a masterclass in design, blending robust functionality with understated elegance. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

* Oystersteel Case: Crafted from Rolex's proprietary Oystersteel, a 904L stainless steel alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability. The Oystersteel case provides a robust and reliable housing for the intricate movement within. The case size is typically 40mm, a versatile size that suits a wide range of wrist sizes.

* Cerachrom Bezel: The defining feature of the "Batman" is, of course, the blue and black Cerachrom bezel. The 24-hour graduations are molded into the ceramic and then coated with platinum using a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) process. This ensures the numerals remain legible and resistant to wear. The bezel rotates bi-directionally, allowing for quick and easy adjustment of the second time zone.

* Oyster Bracelet: The GMT-Master II Blau Schwarz is typically paired with the Oyster bracelet, a three-piece link bracelet renowned for its comfort and durability. The Oyster bracelet features Rolex's Easylink comfort extension link, allowing the wearer to easily adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5mm for a perfect fit. The newer models have also been released on the Jubilee bracelet, adding a touch of elegance.

* Dial: The dial is typically black, providing excellent contrast for the luminous hour markers and hands. The hour markers are applied and filled with Chromalight, a long-lasting luminescent material that emits a bright blue glow in low-light conditions. The date window is located at the 3 o'clock position and features a Cyclops lens for enhanced legibility.

* Movement: The heart of the GMT-Master II Blau Schwarz is the Rolex Calibre 3285, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. The Calibre 3285 features a Chronergy escapement, which optimizes energy efficiency and provides greater precision and reliability. It also boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The movement is a certified Swiss chronometer, a testament to its exceptional accuracy.

* Water Resistance: The GMT-Master II Blau Schwarz is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.