New 2015 TT Sub LB: The Journey (PICS)

[Blue Trident]

Greetings to all our fellow members of the TRF Forum! Herein, I have discovered a wonderful community of fellow enthusiasts devoted to the elegant refinement and cutting edge technology of exquisite horology. Many of our more astute, knowledgeable fellow members enjoy sharing the latest information regarding the innovative development, exciting complications and movement functions, as well as, the stunning aesthetic features that are
inherent most especially in the Rolex brand. This shared camaraderie and support for Rolex has not only served to inform, but to also inspire. And, verily, I have been inspired beyond measure regarding the new 2015 Rolex
Submariner LB TT 116613. Now, all I can say is: "JJ, I did it! I got a 'Bluesy', my friend!" And, I know that our Beloved Grand Tosser of the TRF Forum is smiling from up above.

My Blue Sub Journey: For me, the TRF Forum became an essential font for knowledge regarding Rolex and its many iconic models. Over the years, I avidly gleaned its immense data base of facts, figures, stunning examples,
and cutting edge designs. I also perused quite intently the evolving development and actual changes that were integrated into the Sport Model line with the advent of the new millennium, such as the Maxi Face Dial and the Ceramic Bezel. And, in 2010 the new Submariner received a ceramic bezel and its own updated version of the innovative Glidelock Clasp that had been previously introduced in the DSSD in 2008.

Still unsatisfied, I waited as I saw that Breitling had finally developed an in-house movement. However, despite Breitlings noteworthy models, I was still more than impressed by the longitudinal, historic and iconic branding
of the Rolex Submariner. Very few higher end timepieces enjoy this grand level of lauded cultural significance, symbolism, and high retention in value, long after the original purchase. The appreciation for, and prestige and astute recognition of the Submariner is global. Fast forward to 2015. With the unique aspects of the Submariner in mind, I decided to take another look. Lo and behold, I discovered that a new shade of blue for the TT Sub was introduced in 2014: "Bluesy" got a new look! When I saw this beautiful new shade of blue on the TT Sub, well, that was it for me!

Now, off to find a knowledgeable dealer whom would offer the very best customer service, and, best price. But, let me start off by telling you that this was the most difficult component of the process. Truly, this purchase was to be a special and memorable event for me that is akin to purchasing ones first brand new sports car. Therefore, I was determined to examine this new Submariner up-close and personal. And, I wanted to visit a Rolex AD to satisfy that specific requirement.

Finally, I visited several well known, long standing Rolex AD's: Davidson and Licht, Tourneau and Shreve. To be brief, I was disappointed by the lack of simple courtesy, and by the uninterested attitudes, misinformation, as well as, the pressure tactics of a used car finance sales manager that some of the sales people seemed to espouse just to get me to buy what they had in stock. I did not want the Subs they had in their display cases because they
were older stock, which had now been handled repeatedly by customers, showing wear and tear. I wanted a new 2015. And, at Tourneau, two sales people stated emphatically that the new 2015 models were not even available, yet (this is untrue)! And, at Shreve, no one greeted me, no one asked if I needed any assistance. I had to interrupt someone just to get their attention. Nearly at every vendor I visited, most of the sales staff were on their cell phones talking or texting. Even one of the more mature sales persons seemed uninterested and arrogant, informing me that Rolex sells itself, all in an effort to excuse their lack of attention to the customer.

Frustrated over the poor customer service at these establishments, I called the RSC office in New York to procure another list of AD's. The above mentioned dealers were immediately rattled off by the RSC, and when I had stated that I had experienced sub-par service at those locations, the name of another vendor AD was then kindly provided: Joe Escobar's Diamonds in Campbell, CA. With much trepidation, I called this recommended vendor. And, to my utter surprise and delight, an exceptional salesperson answered the call named Sal Esposito. Right from the start, I was treated with such pleasant attention, courtesy and concern. Sal actually took the time to listen to me, the customer. I already knew what I wanted. And, he stated that he had the new 2015 models that I wanted to look at in stock, and that he felt more than privileged and thrilled to actually make an appointment with me so that he could personally offer all the time I needed to examine and discuss at length all the many and outstanding features that make Rolex an exceptional timepiece. In addition, Sal stated that he would also be sure
to introduce me to their Master Rolex Watchmaker on the premises.

I then ventured the long journey to see him. And, from the moment I walked into Joe Escobar's Diamonds, I was kindly greeted and treated like royalty. I was promptly and graciously offered refreshments and an opportunity to be shown the stores exceptional layout and amazing displays. Sal greeted me like an old family member, and I found him even more engaging and pleasant in person, as we just talked about life for a while. And, as we spoke about Rolex, I was impressed with his knowledge of the marque, and his attention to what specific Rolex model would suit my needs. Sal graciously showed me a brand new GMT Master II, a Black Bezel and Dial Face Sub, and the coveted 2015 Blue Sub, all in TT, my personal preference. As an astute Rolex enthusiast himself, Sal discussed all the amazing features and evolution of these specific models, allowing me to hold, try on my wrist, and even walk outside the showroom with him to better examine each watch in natural lighting. I compliment Sal's people skills to allow me the time and extra attention to make my own selection.

Without a doubt, it had to be a Sub for me: The Glidelock Clasp, the Luminescent Indicator at 12 o'clock, the all new cerulean blue in contrast to the SS and Gold Solid Link Bracelet was the most beautiful to me. This is the
one! As I took a closer look, I noticed the LB Blue had a few minute scratches. Sal then ran to the backroom and pulled out an undisplayed "Bluesy", totally surprising me. But, it still was not quite right. However, without skipping a beat, he assured me that he had no problem in ordering a brand new one for me. Truly, this was an unexpected delight. Most dealers pressure the customer to buy what is on hand. But, Sal went the extra mile,
assuring me that I would receive a brand new 2015 TT Sub LB from the RSC in NYC, untouched and unopened by any other hands, except by the actual Rolex tech's in Geneva, and that it would only take two weeks. Sal then offered the icing on the cake by authorizing a reasonable discount. Sold!

And, as promised, "Bluesy" was sent to me in record time, enclosed in a very special plastic casing that only a brand new untouched Rolex is placed in, released and sent in directly from Rolex in Geneva, and untouched by any other consumer, to the NYC RSC, to Sal, and then to me. Frankly, I cannot praise, nor recommend Sal at Joe Escobar Diamonds enough! Wow! Sal's courtesy and expertise are stellar! So, if you are considering a Rolex, do yourself an amazing favor and call Sal. Finally, I would like to thank our TRF members for their patience, time, and interest in helping me to share the mutual enthusiasm we all have for Rolex. Such palpable shared support and enthusiasm within the TRF family has encouraged me to become a member. So, without further ado, here are some photos of the amazing 2015 Rolex Submariner LB TT 116613: