rolex black and blue submariner | Rolex Submariner with date price

The Rolex Submariner, a name synonymous with luxury, precision, and timeless design, has captivated watch enthusiasts for decades. Among its various iterations, the "Black and Blue" Submariner, often nicknamed the "Cookie Monster" due to its distinctive color combination, stands out as a particularly desirable and sought-after piece. This article delves into the intricacies of this iconic timepiece, exploring its features, market value, and place within the broader Submariner family.

The Allure of the "Cookie Monster": A Unique Aesthetic

The "Black and Blue" Submariner, while not an officially designated model name by Rolex, typically refers to specific Submariner configurations featuring a black dial and a blue bezel. This combination offers a striking contrast, lending the watch a sporty yet sophisticated aesthetic. The model's appeal stems from its departure from the traditional all-black or black-and-green Submariner color schemes, offering a refreshing and eye-catching alternative.

Key Features and Specifications:

Let's break down the defining characteristics of the "Black and Blue" Submariner, focusing on the elements that contribute to its desirability:

* Uni-Directional Rotating 18k White Gold Bezel with a Blue Cerachrom Ring: This is arguably the most defining feature. The bezel is crafted from 18k white gold, providing a luxurious feel and enduring shine. More importantly, the insert is made of Cerachrom, Rolex's proprietary ceramic material. Cerachrom is exceptionally resistant to scratches, corrosion, and fading caused by UV light exposure. The vibrant blue color of the Cerachrom ring adds a significant visual appeal, contrasting beautifully with the black dial. The uni-directional rotation mechanism is a crucial safety feature for divers, ensuring that if the bezel is accidentally moved underwater, it will only shorten the elapsed dive time, preventing a potentially dangerous situation.

* Black Dial with Dot Hour Markers: The black dial provides a classic and highly legible backdrop for the luminous dot hour markers. These markers, along with the hands, are coated with Chromalight, Rolex's long-lasting luminescent material. This ensures excellent visibility in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for a dive watch. The simplicity of the dial contributes to the overall elegance and readability of the watch.

* Minute Markers Around the Outer Rim: The minute markers, precisely printed around the outer rim of the dial, enhance the watch's functionality. They allow for accurate timekeeping and precise measurement of elapsed time, essential for divers and anyone who requires precise timing.

* Oyster Case and Bracelet: The Submariner's robust Oyster case is renowned for its water resistance. Typically crafted from Oystersteel (Rolex's 904L stainless steel), the case provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The Oyster bracelet, also made from Oystersteel, is known for its comfort and security. It features the Oysterlock clasp, which prevents accidental opening, and the Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments to the bracelet length without the need for tools. This is particularly useful when wearing the watch over a wetsuit.

* Rolex Caliber: The "Black and Blue" Submariner is powered by one of Rolex's in-house movements, typically the Caliber 3135 or, in newer models, the Caliber 3235. These movements are chronometer-certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability. They feature a Parachrom hairspring, which is highly resistant to shocks and temperature variations, further enhancing the watch's performance.

* Date Function (in some models): While some Submariners are "no-date" models, many "Black and Blue" iterations include a date function displayed at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by the iconic Cyclops lens. This adds a practical element to the watch's functionality.

Navigating the Market: Price, Availability, and Investment Potential

The Rolex Submariner, in all its variations, is a highly sought-after timepiece, and the "Black and Blue" is no exception. Its popularity translates to a strong market value, particularly for well-maintained examples.

* Rolex Submariner Blue Bezel Price: Determining a precise price for a "Black and Blue" Submariner with a blue bezel is complex as it depends on several factors:

* Model Year: Newer models, equipped with the latest movements and features, generally command higher prices.

* Condition: The condition of the watch significantly impacts its value. Pristine, unworn examples fetch the highest prices, while those with signs of wear and tear will be priced accordingly.

* Box and Papers: Having the original box, warranty card (papers), and other accompanying documentation adds value to the watch.

* Market Demand: The current market demand for Rolex watches, particularly the Submariner, plays a crucial role in determining prices.

Generally, you can expect to pay a premium over the retail price for a "Black and Blue" Submariner on the secondary market.