The Rolex Submariner "Bluesy," with its iconic blue and black bezel, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its striking aesthetic, robust build, and legendary reliability have cemented its status as a grail watch for many. However, the news of its discontinuation in 2019 sent ripples through the collector community, sparking intense discussions on forums like Rolex Forums – Rolex Watch Forum (cited above) and significantly impacting the secondary market. This article delves into the history of the Bluesy, explores its various models, compares it to other popular Rolex models, analyzes its current market value, and examines the reasons behind its discontinuation and its enduring legacy.
Rolex Bluesy Models: A Timeline of Elegance
The term "Bluesy" isn't an official Rolex designation, but rather a colloquialism affectionately given to Submariner models featuring a blue and black Cerachrom bezel insert. This specific configuration wasn't a constant feature throughout the Submariner's history. Understanding the different iterations is crucial to appreciating the discontinued model's significance. While pinpointing the exact start is difficult, the modern interpretation of the Bluesy is generally associated with the reference numbers that followed the introduction of the Cerachrom bezel in 2008.
Before the Cerachrom era, Submariners predominantly featured aluminum bezels, which were prone to fading and scratching. While some vintage Submariners might have exhibited a similar blue and black color scheme due to bezel aging, these are distinct from the modern Bluesy. The transition to the Cerachrom bezel, a far more durable ceramic insert, marked a significant upgrade and contributed to the Bluesy's enduring appeal.
The most sought-after Bluesy models are generally those from the period between its introduction and its discontinuation in 2019. These models, typically referenced as the 116613LB (two-tone) and 116610LV (all-steel), represent the peak of the Bluesy's popularity. Specific nuances within these reference numbers, including minor dial variations and case construction details, further differentiate individual watches and contribute to their collectible value. Understanding these nuances requires deep immersion into Rolex's production history and detailed examination of individual watches. Online forums and specialist websites dedicated to Rolex watches are invaluable resources in this endeavor.
2022 Rolex Submariner Date Bluesy (and the Lack Thereof):
It's crucial to clarify that there is no 2022 Rolex Submariner Date Bluesy. The model was discontinued in 2019. Any reference to a "2022 Bluesy" likely refers to a pre-owned watch from the previous production run, or potentially a misidentification of a different Submariner model. The absence of a new Bluesy in 2022 further emphasizes its discontinued status and underscores the high demand for pre-owned examples.
Rolex Bluesy vs. Root Beer: A Tale of Two Bezels
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