How does the ceramic bezel differ?

[Brancieri]

I haven't seen one, but I hear a lot of talk about the ceramic bezel. Is it discernibly different?

[Brancieri]

And, will the LV Sub. ever be offered with a ceramic bezel?

[Tools]

The new bezel is a completely different design.

It's made in several parts including a bearing cage for a different and more durable action and feel. And, of course, it is fitted with a thicker and more durable ceramic insert rather than the older aluminum..

[jimroe]

In addition to the design changes, it does look different:

The gloss of the bezel is significantly higher - very shiny

The bezel seems to change color based on how light strikes it, sometimes looking jet black and sometimes grey - it's kind of neat

The numbers are larger than previous bezels - somewhat controversial as some feel they are too large and others don't.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

And I can add that the ceramic bezel has 24 clicks instead of the predecessor version that has (had, really) 120 clicks.

The ceramic bezel insert is also virtually scratchproof and not affected by UV rays (the former anodized aluminium bezel insert could fade).

Finally, the ceramic bezel clicks on ball-bearings which the former one didn't.

[Brancieri]

Will the 50th, LV Submariner come with the ceramic bezel? Is the bezel insert able to replace the current bezel?

I'd prefer 120 clicks to 24...otherwise you are able to measure larger increments of minutes. I'd prefer to measure smaller increments.

[Texsubmariner]

Originally Posted by Brancieri

Will the 50th, LV Submariner come with the ceramic bezel? Is the bezel insert able to replace the current bezel?

I'd prefer 120 clicks to 24...otherwise you are able to measure larger increments of minutes. I'd prefer to measure smaller increments.

That's the million dollar question! No one knows if or when Rolex will update the Sub/SD line. Only Rolex knows. However, a lot of people think that the Basel Fair in April 2008 will bring changes. One would think that if the Sub or Sub LV gets updated, it won't be just the bezel but also the new parachrom hairspring as well. Also, don't be surprised if it will be a makeover with new case, bracelet, etc...

[robrtx]

I like the 24 click bezel for the GMT. It is meant to measure hours and the 24 clicks is perfect for clicking in 1 hour increments.

My 2 cents

Bob

[leeyong]

so does this mean I no longer can used it like a elapse time minute counter? (like a sub)

[mike]

Originally Posted by Brancieri

Will the 50th, LV Submariner come with the ceramic bezel? Is the bezel insert able to replace the current bezel?

I'd prefer 120 clicks to 24...otherwise you are able to measure larger increments of minutes. I'd prefer to measure smaller increments.

I would imagine any change to the Sub will not affect the 120 click bezel. The GMT has 24 because that's how many hours are in the day.
The subs purpose is much different.

[mike]

Originally Posted by leeyong

so does this mean I no longer can used it like a elapse time minute counter? (like a sub)

Well, you can it's just not quite as precise.

[Brancieri]

The Sub. would not be effective with 24 clicks...120 is for 1/2 minutes...when diving...

[Jocke]

Originally Posted by SPACE-DWELLER

Finally, the ceramic bezel clicks on ball-bearings which the former one didn't.

So when you got that watch you got balls?



Jocke

[mailman]

Originally Posted by Jocke

So when you got that watch you got balls?



Jocke

And when you turn the bezel, you got your balls in your hand