The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of horology, needs little introduction. Its iconic design, robust build, and unparalleled reliability have cemented its place as a grail watch for countless enthusiasts. But what happens when you take that already iconic design and shroud it in a cloak of absolute darkness? Enter the world of the "blackout" Submariner – a modified, often aftermarket, version of the classic diver that pushes the boundaries of stealth and style. My recent encounter with one at a local jeweler has left a lasting impression, albeit a somewhat expensive one.
Rolex Blackout Review: A Deep Dive into Darkness
My journey into the shadowy world of blacked-out Rolex Submariners began innocently enough. Browsing a local jewelry store, I stumbled upon a sight that stopped me in my tracks: a completely black Submariner. Forget the usual steel gleam – this was a watch draped in obsidian, a testament to the power of total darkness. The case, bezel, dial, hands – everything was shrouded in a deep, matte black. It was unlike anything I'd ever seen. The effect was striking, subtly aggressive, and undeniably cool. The polished ceramic bezel insert, usually a stark contrast against the steel case, was seamlessly integrated into the overall black aesthetic. Even the usually prominent Rolex crown guards seemed to melt into the darkness, contributing to the watch's understated yet powerful presence.
The feel of the watch was equally impressive. The weight felt substantial, a testament to the quality materials used, even if the coating was aftermarket. The DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, or possibly a similar PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) treatment, felt smooth and remarkably resistant to scratches. It was clear that this wasn't just a simple paint job; this was a serious modification, professionally applied (at least, that's what I hoped!). The bracelet, also blacked out, felt comfortable and secure on my wrist. The clasp operated smoothly, and the overall build quality felt consistent with what one would expect from a genuine Rolex, even if it had been significantly altered.
Then came the price tag. A staggering $19,000. While I was impressed by the watch's aesthetics and apparent craftsmanship, that price point immediately raised several flags. While genuine Rolex Submariners command high prices, this modified version represented a significant premium. The question then became: was this price justified? The answer, for me, was a resounding no. While the blackout effect was undeniably attractive and unique, the price far exceeded my comfort level, especially considering the fact that this wasn't a factory-produced Rolex.
All Black Rolex Watches: A Market of Mystery and Modification
Rolex itself does produce watches with black features. Many models incorporate black ceramic bezels, black dials, and even black bracelets. However, a completely blacked-out Submariner, where every visible component is uniformly black, is not part of Rolex's official offerings. This creates a fascinating niche market for modified watches, where skilled watchmakers and aftermarket specialists take existing Rolex models and transform them into something entirely new. This process often involves applying DLC or PVD coatings, a technique that's both complex and expensive.
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