Footballer David De Gea spotted wearing a Rolex

David De Gea, long regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation during his tenure at Manchester United, was recently spotted wearing the Rolex GMT-Master II reference 126710BLNR — the stainless steel 'Batman' variant launched at Baselworld 2019, finished on the brand's elegant five-link Jubilee bracelet.

The Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR represents a significant technical and aesthetic evolution within the GMT-Master lineage. Powering the watch is the in-house Calibre 3285, a movement that brought a raft of improvements over its predecessor: a Chronergy escapement for greater energy efficiency, a 70-hour power reserve, and Rolex's patented Parachrom hairspring for superior shock and temperature resistance. The 40mm Oystersteel case houses a bidirectional rotatable 24-hour bezel insert crafted from Cerachrom ceramic in black and blue — the combination that earned the watch its 'Batman' nickname among collectors, a nod to the superhero's colour palette.

The 2019 Baselworld debut was notable for a reason beyond the movement upgrade: Rolex reintroduced the Jubilee bracelet to the GMT-Master II for the first time in the modern era. Previously the exclusive domain of the Datejust and a handful of dress models, the Jubilee's return added a dressier, more refined wearing option alongside the traditional Oyster bracelet variant. Collectors responded immediately, and the 126710BLNR on Jubilee became arguably the single most in-demand stainless steel sports watch Rolex produces.

De Gea's affinity for the reference sits well within footballing culture, where the GMT-Master II occupies a firm position as the sport's definitive status watch. Its dual time zone functionality — practical for a professional athlete navigating European fixtures and international duty — adds a layer of utility beyond pure aesthetics. The black-and-blue colour scheme also carries a quiet, versatile elegance that crosses dress codes effortlessly.

On the secondary market, the Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLNR commands a substantial premium over its official retail price. Authorised dealer wait lists remain extensive, pushing grey-market values well above list. For collectors and footballers alike, this is one of the clearest examples of a modern Rolex that functions simultaneously as a tool watch and a genuine investment piece.