Abstract: An inking, water form and metering roller (5) having an elongated and generally cylindrical core (7) comprising a first elastomeric material in which a continuous helical groove (12) is defined and extends along the length thereof. The core is fully enclosed in a jacket (18) of a second elastomeric material. Both the core and the jacket of the roller have predetermined durometer hardnesses, the durometer hardness of the jacket being greater than the durometer hardness of the core. An inking, water form and metering roller (35) is also disclosed having an elongated and generally cylindrical core (37) of an elastomeric material with a predetermined durometer hardness in which a continuous helical groove (42) is defined, and in which a separate ribbon (48) of the elastomeric material comprising the core and having the same durometer hardness as the core is helically interwound and finished flush with the exterior surface of the core.