The Rolex Submariner Date reference 98230, affectionately known as the "Bluesey" within the collector community, represents a compelling blend of luxury, durability, and iconic design. This particular model, boasting a striking combination of a blue Cerachrom bezel and a royal blue dial, stands as a testament to Rolex's unwavering commitment to horological excellence and its enduring legacy in the world of professional diving watches. This article delves deep into the specifics of the 98230, exploring its features, history, desirability, and place within the broader Rolex Submariner lineage.
A Deeper Dive into the 98230: Specifications and Design
The 98230 Submariner Date is a captivating timepiece, distinguished by its unique two-tone construction. The Oyster case, measuring 40mm in diameter, is crafted from a robust blend of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold. This combination provides a beautiful contrast, highlighting the strength and resilience of the steel while adding a touch of opulent warmth from the yellow gold. The case, meticulously engineered for water resistance to a depth of 300 meters (1,000 feet), showcases Rolex's mastery in underwater engineering. The iconic unidirectional rotatable bezel, a crucial tool for divers monitoring their dive time, features a Cerachrom insert in blue ceramic. This highly scratch-resistant ceramic ensures the bezel's markings remain crisp and legible even after years of use, a stark improvement over the aluminum bezels found in earlier Submariner models.
The dial, a vibrant royal blue, commands attention. Large luminescent hour markers, meticulously applied, ensure optimal readability in even the darkest underwater environments. These markers, along with the luminescent hands, are coated with Chromalight, Rolex's proprietary luminescent material, guaranteeing superior nighttime visibility. The date window, subtly positioned at 3 o'clock, adds a practical touch without detracting from the overall aesthetic balance. The Cyclops lens, magnifying the date for easy reading, is a hallmark of the Submariner Date models. Powering this exceptional timepiece is the self-winding Calibre 3135 movement, a testament to Rolex's in-house manufacturing prowess. This highly accurate and reliable movement, known for its robustness and longevity, provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
The Legacy of the Rolex Submariner: A History of Innovation
The Rolex Submariner, first introduced in 1953, has consistently redefined the standards of diving watches. Its evolution reflects Rolex's dedication to pushing the boundaries of both design and functionality. The 98230, produced during a specific period in Rolex's history, represents a significant milestone in the Submariner's development. The shift to the Cerachrom bezel, for instance, marked a considerable advancement in terms of durability and scratch resistance, enhancing the watch's suitability for rigorous underwater use. The transition to the Calibre 3135 movement further solidified the Submariner's reputation for precision and reliability.
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