Rolex GMT-Master II BLNR Bruiser Hands-On

Fernando shares his experience acquiring the Rolex GMT-Master II BLNR, affectionately known as the 'Bruiser,' after an unexpected encounter at an Authorized Dealer in Hong Kong. His post delves into the allure of this specific reference and the common sales tactics surrounding popular Rolex models, offering a relatable perspective for collectors.

About once a month I like to spend a little time browsing the watch shops which are cluttered around the more popular shopping districts. Many are in malls, with others spilling out on to the adjoining streets. Out-of- towners will be overwhelmed and awed by the sight and density of these watch retailers in HK.

In order to keep abreast of current trends I usually end up visiting and chatting with staff at a few ADs that I'm familiar with. I also get first hand information on certain aspects of the watch industry in general.

After visiting a few of the big brands which are within spitting distance of each other; starting off with the really high end stuff like RM (everything else thereafter looks like a downright bargain by comparison), then AP , VC, JLC etc. and finally ending at a Rolex AD.

As I said I wasn't looking for anything in particular, just browsing. After exchanging a few niceties, the salesman asked an attendant to bring something in from the safe. This sounded promising as certain 'hot' items are never displayed but kept in the safe for VIPs or whatever. He then proceeded to tell me how demand has outstripped supply for this particular model and most ADs are out of stock. I was expecting an SS Daytona or even the Pt. model but then it turned out to be the GMT2 BLNR.

It all sounded like an all too common sales tactic and surely this person did not expect me to fall for it, did he? But I surely did.

Not for a moment was I under the impression that this was a 'rare' model. As with other Rolex there will be plenty to go around once supply kicks in and demand evens out, as happened with others such as the Milgauss GV and Sub LV. Or should I wait until Basel to see just what's around the corner as others are doing?

None of that mattered once I had my eyes on the 'Bruiser'. That bit of blue on the bezel and hand had me hooked! It just made all the difference compared to the regular LN model.

So now, I follow in the footsteps of our esteemed moderator Baron and our dear friend hs who both acted as enablers, after seeing their excellent review of the GMT BLNR. Any others I missed?

Here's the newly arrived, fresh from the safe, BLNR. I will now proceed to do the bracelet adjustment myself; something I've learnt to do correctly with a bit of practice and the right tools.

Thank you for looking. More and better pics. to follow.

Cheers

fernando