rolex submariner staal goud blauw | Rolex Submariner gouden klokken

The Rolex Submariner. The name itself conjures images of deep-sea exploration, sophisticated style, and enduring luxury. A true icon in the world of horology, the Submariner has evolved over decades, maintaining its core functionality while adapting to changing tastes and technological advancements. While the all-steel model remains arguably the most recognizable, the Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw, or the two-tone steel and gold Submariner with a blue dial and bezel, holds a special allure for those who appreciate a touch of opulence and a vibrant splash of color. This article will delve into the intricacies of this stunning timepiece, exploring its history, design, variations, price, and its place within the broader Submariner family, specifically touching upon the Rolex Submariner's golden iterations and the no-date version.

A Marriage of Robustness and Refinement: The Appeal of Two-Tone

The Rolex Submariner, first introduced in 1954, was designed as a professional diving watch. Its rugged construction, unidirectional rotating bezel, and exceptional water resistance made it an indispensable tool for underwater explorers. Over time, however, the Submariner transcended its purely utilitarian purpose, becoming a symbol of success and discerning taste.

The introduction of two-tone models, blending the durability of stainless steel with the inherent luxury of gold, marked a significant evolution in the Submariner's appeal. This combination allows wearers to enjoy the robustness and everyday wearability of steel while simultaneously projecting an air of elegance and sophistication. The Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw, with its captivating blue dial and bezel, elevates this combination to another level. The striking blue hue adds a playful yet refined touch, setting it apart from the more classic black or green Submariner models.

Decoding the Design: A Closer Look at the Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw

The defining characteristics of the Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw lie in its distinctive combination of materials and colors. Let's break down the key elements:

* Case: The case is typically crafted from Oystersteel (Rolex's proprietary stainless steel alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability). The middle case is a solid block of Oystersteel, providing a robust foundation for the watch.rolex submariner staal goud blauw

* Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel is a crucial feature for divers, allowing them to track elapsed time underwater. In the Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw, the bezel is made from yellow gold and features a blue Cerachrom (Rolex's proprietary ceramic) insert. Cerachrom is virtually scratch-proof, UV-resistant, and impervious to saltwater, ensuring the bezel maintains its vibrant color and pristine appearance for years to come. The raised numerals and graduations on the bezel are also coated in gold, further enhancing the luxurious aesthetic.

* Bracelet: The bracelet is a combination of Oystersteel and yellow gold. The center links are crafted from solid yellow gold, while the outer links are Oystersteel. This two-tone design seamlessly integrates with the case and bezel, creating a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic. The bracelet typically features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments to the bracelet length without the need for tools, ensuring a comfortable fit for all wrist sizes and accommodating wetsuits.

* Dial: The blue dial is a standout feature of this model. The sunburst finish adds depth and dynamism, reflecting light beautifully and creating a captivating visual effect. The hour markers are applied and filled with Chromalight, Rolex's luminescent material, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The hands are crafted from gold and also filled with Chromalight.

* Movement: Inside the Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw beats a self-winding mechanical movement, typically a Rolex Caliber 3235. This movement is a marvel of engineering, featuring a Chronergy escapement for enhanced efficiency, a Parachrom hairspring for greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations, and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The movement is a certified Swiss chronometer, meaning it has been rigorously tested and meets stringent accuracy standards.

Variations and Evolution: Tracing the History of the Two-Tone Blue Submariner

The Rolex Submariner Staal Goud Blauw has evolved over the years, with subtle changes to its design and features. Earlier models, like the reference 16613, featured a more classic design with a slightly different shade of blue and a different movement. More recent iterations, such as the reference 126613LB, boast a larger 41mm case, a refined bracelet, and the advanced Caliber 3235 movement.

The specific shade of blue used for the dial and bezel has also varied slightly over time, adding to the collectibility and appeal of different vintage models. Some collectors prize older models for their "nipple dial" configurations, featuring gold hour markers with tritium lume. These vintage pieces offer a unique charm and historical significance.