History and Evolution of the Rolex Bluesy Submariner
The Rolex Submariner's journey with blue dials and two-tone materials began in the late 1980s, marking a significant shift towards more luxurious sports watches. The nickname 'Bluesy' affectionately emerged to describe these striking gold and steel combinations.
Early 'Bluesy' models, such as the Reference 16613, featured an aluminium bezel insert and a traditional blue dial. These watches quickly gained popularity for their opulent yet robust aesthetic.
A major evolution arrived in 2009 with the introduction of the Reference 116613LB. This model brought Rolex's innovative Cerachrom ceramic bezel to the 'Bluesy', offering enhanced scratch resistance and colour stability. It also incorporated the 'maxi' dial with larger hour markers and hands, improving legibility, and featured a more substantial case and bracelet design, commonly referred to as the 'Super Case'. This generation housed the reliable Calibre 3135 movement.
In 2020, Rolex updated the Submariner line again, introducing the Reference 126613LB. This latest iteration increased the case size subtly from 40mm to 41mm, refined the lugs, and most significantly, integrated the new-generation Calibre 3235 movement. The 3235 offers superior power reserve (approximately 70 hours) and enhanced precision, solidifying the 'Bluesy's' position as a modern horological icon. Throughout its evolution, the Rolex Bluesy Submariner has maintained its allure, representing a perfect fusion of Rolex's dive watch heritage with unmistakable luxury.
