Cricketer KL Rahul spotted wearing a Rolex

KL Rahul, one of Indian cricket's most technically gifted openers and a regular fixture in both Test and white-ball formats, was recently spotted wearing a Rolex GMT-Master II 'Batman' on what appears to be a casual off-duty occasion. The watch sits on his wrist alongside visible tattoo work, the steel Jubilee bracelet catching light in a manner that confirms its authenticity and condition as near-pristine.

The reference in question is the 126710BLNR, introduced at Baselworld 2019 and immediately recognised as a landmark release. It pairs a 40mm Oystersteel case with Rolex's proprietary Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert in a two-tone black and blue configuration — the combination that earned the nickname 'Batman' from collectors, distinguishing it from the earlier 116710BLNR which wore the same colors on an Oyster bracelet. The 126710BLNR's defining visual upgrade is the five-link Jubilee bracelet, previously associated with the Datejust lineage, lending this tool watch an unexpectedly dressy character without compromising its sporty DNA.

Powering the watch is Rolex's Calibre 3285, an in-house movement featuring the Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency, a Parachrom hairspring for shock and temperature resistance, and a 70-hour power reserve — a meaningful upgrade over the Calibre 3186 found in its predecessor. GMT functionality is delivered via an independently adjustable 24-hour hand, allowing simultaneous tracking of a second time zone, a feature rooted in the model's 1955 origins as a professional tool for Pan Am pilots.

Among collectors, the 126710BLNR occupies a peculiar sweet spot: it is both a serious horological instrument and a fashion statement. Waitlists at authorised dealers remain substantial years after launch, and grey-market premiums have moderated from their 2021-2022 peaks but remain firmly above retail. The Jubilee bracelet variant consistently commands higher resale values than its Oyster-bracelet predecessor.

Rahul joins a long list of elite athletes drawn to the GMT-Master II's dual identity as a precision instrument and status symbol. At an official retail of approximately $10,800 for current pricing — the caption's figure of $7,750 reflects an earlier price point — this is a watch that rewards patience at the boutique and commands respect on the wrist.