Rolex submariner closeup

The Rolex Submariner is the world's most iconic dive watch, launched in 1953 by Swiss brand Rolex. Renowned for its robustness and timeless design.

About this subject

The Rolex Submariner was introduced in 1953 at Baselworld and became the first watch to be water-resistant to 100 meters, a technical innovation for the time. This was made possible by the Oyster case, patented by Rolex in 1926, which sealed the movement against water and dust. Over time, water resistance was increased to 300 meters, the current standard.

The Submariner's aesthetic is defined by the unidirectional rotating bezel with a ceramic insert (modern models) or aluminum (vintage), allowing divers to track immersion time. The high-contrast dial with luminescent indices and hands ensures readability in low light. The automatic caliber 3135 (or 3235 in newer models) offers COSC-certified precision.

Notable variations include the Submariner Date, with a date display, and the Submariner No-Date, more purist. References 16610 and 116610 are iconic collectibles, especially the green bezel versions nicknamed "Kermit" and "Hulk". In 2020, Rolex updated the line with the caliber 3235 and subtle design changes, such as a wider bracelet.

Culturally, the Submariner gained fame when worn by Sean Connery as James Bond in 1962's "Dr. No". It has since appeared in numerous films and is a symbol of status and adventure. Its continuous production and high demand on the secondary market confirm its position as a benchmark in luxury watchmaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth rating of the Rolex Submariner?

The modern Rolex Submariner is water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet), while vintage models were rated to 100 meters.

How does the Submariner's rotating bezel work?

The bezel is unidirectional and rotates only counterclockwise to prevent accidental increase of dive time. The markings allow tracking of elapsed time.

What is the difference between Submariner and Submariner Date?

The Submariner Date features a date window on the dial, with a Cyclops lens over the crystal. The Submariner No-Date lacks a date, maintaining the symmetry of the original dial.