To truly understand the allure of the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner, we must first trace its lineage back to the original Rolex GMT-Master. Born in 1955 from a collaboration with Pan American Airways, the GMT-Master was designed for pilots navigating across multiple time zones. Its groundbreaking feature was the 24-hour rotating bezel and an additional 24-hour hand, allowing pilots to track two time zones simultaneously. This innovation quickly cemented the GMT-Master as the quintessential pilot's watch.

The evolution continued, and in 1982, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II. This iteration brought a significant technical advancement: an independently adjustable hour hand. This meant travelers could now easily set the local time upon arrival in a new time zone without stopping the watch or disturbing the minute and seconds hands, a feature highly valued by frequent flyers.

Fast forward to 2013, and Rolex unveiled the GMT-Master II Reference 116710BLNR (Blue/Noir – French for Blue/Black). This marked a pivotal moment. It was the first time Rolex successfully produced a two-color bezel in their proprietary Cerachrom ceramic material. Creating a bezel with two distinct colors, especially in ceramic, was a significant engineering feat. The striking combination of black and blue, reminiscent of the iconic Batman costume, almost instantly earned it the nickname "Batman" within the watch community, a moniker that has stuck and amplified its desirability.

This wasn't just a new color scheme; it was a testament to Rolex's relentless pursuit of innovation and their ability to blend technical prowess with aesthetic brilliance. The Rolex Black and Blue Submariner 'Batman' was born, instantly becoming a modern icon.

The nickname "Batman" for the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner is a testament to the power of visual association and popular culture. The striking black and blue bezel immediately evokes the iconic color scheme of the Batman superhero costume. This readily recognizable association resonated strongly within the watch community and beyond, contributing significantly to the watch's popularity.

Nicknames in the watch world are often organic and driven by enthusiasts. They add personality and a sense of community to these often-serious objects of luxury. The 'Batman' nickname is not only catchy and memorable but also accurately captures the visual essence of the watch. It's a perfect example of how a well-chosen nickname can amplify a product's appeal and solidify its place in popular culture.

The color combination of black and blue is inherently captivating. Black exudes sophistication, power, and timeless elegance, while blue often symbolizes depth, tranquility, and trustworthiness. Together, they create a dynamic and visually appealing contrast that is both modern and classic.

In the context of the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner, the black and blue bezel not only signifies day and night on the 24-hour scale but also adds a layer of visual interest that sets it apart from more traditional monochromatic bezels. It's a subtle yet impactful way for Rolex to inject personality and modernity into the classic GMT-Master design.

The color combination also lends itself to versatility. The Rolex Black and Blue Submariner is equally at home with a suit and tie as it is with casual attire, making it a truly versatile everyday luxury watch. This adaptability further enhances its appeal to a broad audience.

While the aesthetics of the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner are undeniably compelling, its true value lies in its functionality and performance. As a GMT-Master II, it's designed for global travelers and anyone needing to track multiple time zones. The independent 24-hour hand and rotating bezel allow for easy tracking of a second time zone, and even a third by utilizing the bezel in conjunction with the 12-hour hand.

Rolex's legendary robustness and reliability ensure the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner can withstand the rigors of daily wear and travel. The Oystersteel case and bracelet are built to last, and the Cerachrom bezel is virtually scratch-proof, maintaining its pristine appearance for years to come. The watch is also water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and other water activities, although it's primarily designed as a land-based tool watch.

For the frequent flyer, the GMT-Master II is more than just a status symbol; it’s a genuinely useful tool. It simplifies the complexities of international travel and provides a reliable and stylish companion for any journey. The precision and accuracy of the Rolex movement ensure that timekeeping is never a concern, regardless of location or environment.

The Rolex Black and Blue Submariner 'Batman' is notoriously difficult to acquire at retail from authorized dealers. Demand consistently outstrips supply, leading to long waiting lists and a vibrant secondary market. The watch is often sold at a significant premium above its retail price on the grey market.

This scarcity, coupled with Rolex's brand prestige and the watch's inherent desirability, makes the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner a strong investment piece. Historically, Rolex sports models have demonstrated excellent value retention and appreciation over time. The 'Batman,' with its iconic status and limited availability, is no exception. While past performance is not indicative of future results, the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner remains a highly sought-after watch in the collector's market, suggesting its value is likely to remain robust.

For those looking to acquire a Rolex Black and Blue Submariner, patience and persistence are key. Building a relationship with an authorized dealer and expressing genuine interest can improve your chances of eventually obtaining one at retail. Alternatively, the grey market offers immediate availability, albeit at a premium. When purchasing from the grey market, it's crucial to deal with reputable sellers to ensure authenticity and provenance.

While the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner 'Batman' holds a unique position, there are alternatives for those seeking similar functionality or aesthetics, or for those with different budget considerations.

For those seeking a GMT watch with a similar sporty aesthetic at a lower price point, options include:

• Tudor Black Bay GMT: Tudor, Rolex's sister brand, offers the Black Bay GMT, which provides a similar GMT function and vintage-inspired design at a more accessible price.
• Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean GMT: Omega's Planet Ocean GMT offers robust construction, a co-axial escapement, and a bold design, providing a strong competitor in the luxury GMT watch category.
• Grand Seiko GMT: Grand Seiko offers exceptional finishing, precision, and unique designs in their GMT range, often incorporating their Spring Drive movement, offering a different technological approach to timekeeping.

For those specifically drawn to the black and blue color scheme, some brands offer watches with similar bezel colors in different styles and price ranges. However, the iconic status and specific design language of the Rolex Black and Blue Submariner remain largely unmatched.

To ensure the longevity and performance of your Rolex Black and Blue Submariner, proper care and maintenance are essential. Rolex watches are built to be robust, but regular servicing will keep them running optimally for generations.

Here are some key care tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your watch regularly with a soft cloth and mild soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry gently.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid exposing your watch to harsh chemicals, solvents, or extreme temperatures.
• Professional Servicing: Rolex recommends a full service approximately every 5-10 years, depending on usage. This service should be performed by an authorized Rolex service center to ensure proper maintenance and preserve the warranty (if applicable) and value.
• Proper Storage: When not wearing your watch, store it in a safe and dry place, preferably in its original box or a watch winder if you want to keep it running.

By following these simple care guidelines, you can ensure that your Rolex Black and Blue Submariner remains a reliable and cherished timepiece for years to come.