Hulk or Batman: Which ‘Superhero’ Rolex Sports Watch is Better?

Over the years, many Rolex watches have acquired appealing monikers after debuting in the market. And they are typically more recognised by their nicknames rather than their official names. However, while some Rolex models have been named after athletes or soda companies, others acquired nicknames inspired by superheroes.

And two of the most iconic Rolex watches and nicknames in the luxury watch industry are the “Hulk” and the “Batman”.

The Rolex Submariner with green bezel and dial acquired the moniker “Hulk”. On the other hand, the Rolex GMT-Master II featuring a black and blue ceramic bezel was nicknamed the “Batman”.

Undoubtedly, both models are top-rated and coveted among collectors globally. If you sell a Rolex Submariner Hulk today or a GMT-Master II Batman, rest assured you will secure a premium price for your Rolex timepiece, especially if it is in excellent condition.

However, the Rolex Hulk and Rolex Batman are also two entirely different models with different functionality. The former is a diver watch, whereas the latter one is a traveller timepiece.

Now, the question is – which superhero Rolex watch is better? Is it the Rolex Hulk or the GMT-Master II Batman? Let’s try to find an answer to this challenging question below.

The Genesis of the Rolex Hulk and Rolex Batman

Rolex turned up with two Submariner models in 2010 – Reference 116610LN and the Reference 116610LV. They featured bulkier 40mm stainless steel cases, broader crown guards and lugs. Moreover, Rolex equipped them with a Maxi dial with bigger luminous plots and hands. Now:

• While the Submariner Ref. 116610LN flaunted a black dial and bezel, the Reference 116610LV came with a green dial and bezel.
• However, Reference 116610LV holds a significant position in luxury watchmaking historically.
• It was the first-ever Submariner featuring a green ceramic bezel and a matching green dial.
• Thanks to the vibrant green bezel and dial, collectors nicknamed this Submariner as the “Hulk”.

After three years, Rolex launched a new GMT-Master II in stainless steel with a blue-and-black ceramic bezel. And the watch captured collectors’ attention immediately. However, the dual-tone blue-and-black bezel acquired the nickname “Batman”.

Differences in Design & Functionalities

Rolex offered both the Hulk and the Batman a 40mm stainless steel case, a rotatable bezel, a date aperture, luminous hour markers and Mercedes-style hands. However, the difference between the two models is here –

• The Submariner Hulk is a diver’s watch.
• Thus, Rolex equipped the timepiece with a bezel that you can rotate only in one direction.
• Moreover, the bezel flaunts 60 minutes engraved graduations that help to track diving times.
• On the contrary, while the Rolex Batman is a GMT watch, it comes with a bi-directional rotatable bezel.
• It features 24-hour markings for depicting the hour of another time zone.

Additionally, the GMT-Master II features an added GMT hand along with three hands. And the Submariner sports the conventional three hands.

Bracelets & Movements

The Rolex Submariner Hulk comes with a three-link, brushed Oyster bracelet and a Glidelock clasp. However, Rolex offered the first Batman Reference 116710BLNR in an Oyster bracelet and later, the Batman Reference 126710BLNR debuted with a five-link Jubilee bracelet. However, the watch has since become available also on the Oyster bracelet.

Naturally, the Hulk and the Submariner are powered by different movements.

• The Calibre 3135 movement powers the Submariner Hulk.
• On the other hand, the GMT-Master II Batman 116710BLNR runs on the Calibre 3186 and Ref. 126710BLNR on the Calibre 3285.

However, Rolex equipped both models with Triplock screw-down crown. Nonetheless, the GMT-Master II Batman is water-resistant to 300m, while the Submariner has a 300m depth rating.

So, Which Rolex “Superhero” Watch is Better? – Rolex Hulk or Rolex Batman

The Rolex Hulk and the Batman belong to two different flagship collections from Rolex. Both watches may feature the same frameworks, almost similar materials and bright colours. But they are different in functionalities.

The Hulk is a professional diver watch that can reach up to 300m depth underwater. Reversely, the Batman is a GMT model that can track the time of three time zones simultaneously.

Regardless, both are extremely popular and celebrated Rolex sports watches. It is pretty impossible to state which model is better. Deciding on the right timepiece will depend on your lifestyle or intend of using the watch and your taste of colour.

The Hulk and the Batman are top-notch in quality, design and functionality in their way. Moreover, both models can fetch premium prices in the pre-owned market.

What model do you prefer – Rolex Hulk or Rolex Batman? Want to know how much your Rolex Batman is worth today? Call us on 0207 242 9160 now for an instant appraisal.

However, we buy all Rolex watches for the best possible prices in the resale market. Sell your Rolex online or via appointment. The process is simple, secure and hassle-free. Get paid within minutes.

Also Read: Rolex GMT-Master II Batman 116710BLNR Vs 126710BLNR