The Rolex Submariner 2-Tone Blue
The Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue, a captivating timepiece that embodies luxury, performance, and timeless elegance, is a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy in watchmaking. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of the iconic Submariner, a journey marked by innovation and refinement.
The Evolution of the Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, was a groundbreaking watch designed for professional divers. It revolutionized the world of diving watches with its water-resistant capabilities, robust construction, and exceptional accuracy. Over the years, the Submariner has undergone several design changes and improvements, each reflecting the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
- The Original Submariner (1953): The first Submariner featured a 36mm stainless steel case, a black dial, and a rotating bezel with a luminous marker at the 12 o’clock position. It was water-resistant to 100 meters, a remarkable feat for its time.
- The Submariner Date (1967): The introduction of the date function marked a significant milestone in the Submariner’s evolution. The date window was positioned at 3 o’clock, adding functionality without compromising the watch’s sleek design.
- The Submariner with Larger Case (1978): In 1978, the Submariner’s case size was increased to 40mm, offering a more substantial presence on the wrist. This change also allowed for improved legibility of the dial and bezel.
- The Submariner with Ceramic Bezel (2008): The introduction of a ceramic bezel in 2008 was a game-changer for the Submariner. The ceramic material is highly scratch-resistant, ensuring that the bezel’s markings remain sharp and legible for years to come. It also offers exceptional color stability, preventing fading over time.
- The Submariner with Glidelock System (2010): In 2010, Rolex introduced the Glidelock system, a groundbreaking innovation that allows for fine adjustments to the bracelet length without the need for tools. This feature provides a more comfortable and secure fit for the watch, regardless of the wearer’s wrist size or the conditions they are facing.
The Introduction of the Two-Tone Design
The two-tone design, combining stainless steel and gold, was first introduced in the 1960s, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the Submariner’s sporty character. This design quickly became a popular choice among watch enthusiasts, appealing to those who sought a blend of practicality and elegance.
The Submariner 2-Tone Blue
The Submariner 2-tone blue is a captivating timepiece that seamlessly blends the functionality of a diving watch with the elegance of a luxury timepiece. Its distinctive features include:
- Two-Tone Design: The case, bezel, and bracelet are crafted from a combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, creating a striking contrast that highlights the watch’s luxurious design.
- Blue Dial: The deep blue dial, inspired by the ocean depths, adds a touch of mystery and allure. The contrasting white gold hour markers and hands provide exceptional legibility, even in low-light conditions.
- Ceramic Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel features a black ceramic insert with a blue Cerachrom ring. The ceramic material is highly scratch-resistant and fade-proof, ensuring that the bezel’s markings remain sharp and legible for years to come.
- Oyster Bracelet: The Oyster bracelet, with its signature three-piece links, provides a comfortable and secure fit. The polished center links and brushed outer links create a visually appealing contrast, further enhancing the watch’s luxurious appeal.
- Caliber 3135 Movement: The Submariner 2-tone blue is powered by the renowned Caliber 3135 movement, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its precision, reliability, and long-lasting performance.
Design and Features: Rolex Submariner 2 Tone Blue
The Rolex Submariner 2-Tone Blue is a sophisticated and elegant timepiece that embodies the brand’s commitment to precision and style. Its unique blend of materials and design elements creates a watch that is both visually striking and functionally exceptional.
Case and Bezel
The Submariner 2-Tone Blue features a 41mm Oyster case crafted from a combination of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold. The case is known for its robustness and water resistance, capable of withstanding depths of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet). The unidirectional rotating bezel, also made of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold, is engraved with a black Cerachrom insert that features a blue 60-minute graduated scale. This bezel allows divers to accurately track their dive time, a crucial safety feature. The polished finish of the case and bezel adds to the watch’s luxurious appeal.
Dial and Hands
The Submariner 2-Tone Blue boasts a striking blue dial that is both elegant and highly legible. The dial features applied hour markers and hands in 18k yellow gold, providing a striking contrast against the blue backdrop. The iconic Rolex crown logo is positioned at 12 o’clock, while the date window is located at 3 o’clock. The hands are filled with luminescent material, ensuring excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
Functionality
The Submariner 2-Tone Blue is equipped with the renowned Rolex caliber 3235, a self-winding mechanical movement. This movement features a Parachrom hairspring, which is resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability. The watch also features a stop-seconds mechanism, allowing for precise time setting. The power reserve of the caliber 3235 is approximately 70 hours.
Comparison with Other Submariner Models
The Submariner 2-Tone Blue stands out from other Submariner models due to its unique combination of materials and design elements. While the classic Submariner is known for its all-steel construction, the 2-Tone Blue introduces a touch of luxury with the use of 18k yellow gold. The blue dial is also a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other Submariner models. The Submariner 2-Tone Blue offers a blend of sportiness and elegance, making it an ideal choice for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It combines robust materials with meticulous attention to detail, creating a watch that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Rolex submariner 2 tone blue – The Submariner 2-tone blue features a blend of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold, creating a sophisticated contrast that sets it apart from its all-stainless steel counterparts. This combination not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also contributes to its overall durability and resistance to corrosion.
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Materials Used
The materials used in the construction of the Submariner 2-tone blue are carefully selected for their quality and performance.
- Stainless Steel: The stainless steel used in the Submariner 2-tone blue is a high-grade 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and scratching. This type of steel is also highly durable and can withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear.
- 18k Yellow Gold: The 18k yellow gold used in the Submariner 2-tone blue is a precious metal that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to the watch. It is also highly resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, ensuring that the watch retains its shine over time.
- Sapphire Crystal: The Submariner 2-tone blue features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass that protects the watch face from damage. Sapphire crystal is known for its exceptional hardness and clarity, making it an ideal choice for high-end watches.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship involved in creating the Submariner 2-tone blue is truly exceptional. Rolex employs a team of highly skilled artisans who meticulously handcraft each watch to the highest standards. The precision and attention to detail that go into the creation of these watches are evident in every aspect of their design and construction.
Here are some examples of the unique finishing techniques used on the Submariner 2-tone blue:
- Polishing: The polished surfaces of the Submariner 2-tone blue are highly reflective, creating a luxurious and elegant look. The polishing process involves using a series of progressively finer abrasives to create a smooth and mirror-like finish.
- Brushing: The brushed surfaces of the Submariner 2-tone blue have a matte finish that helps to reduce glare and fingerprints. The brushing process involves using a fine-grit brush to create a series of parallel lines on the surface of the metal.
- Engraving: The Submariner 2-tone blue features several engraved details, such as the Rolex logo, the watch’s model number, and the serial number. The engraving process involves using a sharp tool to cut precise designs into the surface of the metal.
The Rolex Submariner 2-Tone Blue: A Statement Piece
The Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue, with its combination of polished steel and yellow gold, transcends the realm of a mere timepiece. It embodies a legacy of luxury, precision, and status, making it a coveted symbol of achievement and style. The two-tone blue model, in particular, resonates with a specific audience, adding a touch of opulence and sophistication to its already iconic design.
Cultural and Social Significance, Rolex submariner 2 tone blue
The Rolex Submariner, in its various iterations, has long been associated with power, wealth, and success. Its enduring popularity stems from its association with these qualities, making it a coveted accessory among individuals seeking to project an image of affluence and accomplishment. The two-tone blue model, with its striking contrast of colors and materials, further amplifies this perception. It appeals to those who appreciate the finer things in life and seek to make a statement with their choices.
The Submariner’s cultural significance extends beyond its association with wealth and status. It has become a symbol of adventure and exploration, linked to the world of diving and underwater exploration. This association has cemented its image as a watch for those who embrace a sense of adventure and seek to push boundaries. The two-tone blue model, with its subtle elegance and refined design, adds a touch of sophistication to this adventurous spirit.
Portrayal in Popular Culture and Media
The Rolex Submariner has been a recurring presence in popular culture and media, further solidifying its iconic status. From its appearance on the wrists of renowned actors and celebrities to its depiction in movies and television shows, the Submariner has become synonymous with a certain lifestyle.
The two-tone blue model, with its distinctive aesthetic, has been featured prominently in various forms of media, further enhancing its image. It has been seen on the wrists of characters in movies like “Casino Royale” and “Ocean’s Eleven,” reinforcing its association with luxury and sophistication. Its appearance in music videos and television shows has further cemented its image as a coveted accessory for those who appreciate style and prestige.
Key Individuals and Their Influence
The Rolex Submariner has been worn by a wide range of individuals, from athletes and explorers to actors and musicians. These individuals, through their achievements and influence, have contributed to the watch’s enduring popularity and cultural significance.
The two-tone blue model, with its unique appeal, has attracted its own set of influential wearers. Actors like Daniel Craig, who wore the two-tone blue Submariner in “Casino Royale,” have helped to popularize the model among a wider audience. Musicians like Jay-Z, who has been seen sporting the two-tone blue Submariner, have further contributed to its association with style and success.
These individuals, through their choices and influence, have helped to solidify the Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue as a statement piece, a watch that transcends the realm of a mere timepiece and becomes a symbol of achievement, style, and sophistication.
Investment and Collectibility
The Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue is not just a watch; it’s a coveted timepiece with significant investment potential. Its enduring popularity and limited production runs have made it a highly sought-after collectible, attracting both watch enthusiasts and investors. Understanding the factors that influence its value is crucial for anyone considering purchasing or owning a Submariner 2-tone blue.
Factors Influencing Value
The value of a Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue is determined by a combination of factors, including its rarity, condition, and historical significance.
- Rarity: Limited production runs and specific model variations contribute to the rarity of certain Submariner 2-tone blue models. For example, the “Red Submariner” (reference 1680) with its distinctive red “Submariner” text on the dial is highly sought after due to its limited production and unique design.
- Condition: The condition of a watch significantly affects its value. A pristine, well-maintained Submariner 2-tone blue in its original box and papers will command a higher price than one with visible wear and tear. The presence of original accessories, such as the original box, papers, and even the hang tag, can also increase the value.
- Historical Significance: Watches with historical significance, such as those worn by famous individuals or those associated with significant events, can be highly valuable. For example, a Submariner 2-tone blue owned by a renowned explorer or a model released during a specific historical period might command a premium price.
Market for Vintage and Modern Submariner 2-Tone Blue Models
The market for Rolex Submariner 2-tone blue models is robust and dynamic. Vintage models, particularly those from the 1960s and 1970s, are highly sought after by collectors and investors. Modern Submariner 2-tone blue models, while newer, are also attracting attention due to their limited production and desirable aesthetics.
- Vintage Models: Vintage Submariner 2-tone blue models are often considered to be more valuable than their modern counterparts. Their age, rarity, and historical significance contribute to their desirability. The market for vintage Submariner 2-tone blue models is generally strong, with prices steadily increasing over time. For example, a well-preserved vintage Submariner 2-tone blue “Red Submariner” (reference 1680) could fetch upwards of $50,000 or more at auction.
- Modern Models: Modern Submariner 2-tone blue models are also in high demand, particularly those with limited production runs or unique features. While their prices are generally lower than vintage models, they have shown strong appreciation in recent years. For example, a modern Submariner 2-tone blue (reference 116613LN) with a blue ceramic bezel could sell for around $15,000 to $20,000 in the pre-owned market.