New to Forum - Questions on purchasing a Submariner

[bebrewer]

I've been looking into purchasing a Submariner and this forum has been a wealth of information! I have decided that a pre-ceramic black bezel/face Submariner is the watch for me based on several factors, including cost. I also decided to buy locally to help support a local jeweler and the fact that they will provide a 2 year warranty with the watch.

The jeweler has 2 Submariners that I am interested in purchasing. The first is a '96 (T series?) that has been offered at $4,500 out the door. The other is an '02 (Y series?) that is available for $5,300 out the door. Both watches are virtually identical to me and in near mint condition. It seems to me that unless you are going new enough to the get the ceramic bezel and updated body style that there isn't really a difference but I am admittedly a novice. I was hoping that someone here more knowledgeable than myself on the subject matter could help answer this question-

Is there a reason to purchase the newer watch at the higher price?