rolex submarina 2020 | Rolex Submariner official website

The year 2020 marked a significant turning point for the Rolex Submariner, a watch revered as a cornerstone of horological design and functionality. That year, Rolex unveiled a comprehensively updated collection, incorporating subtle yet impactful changes that modernized the iconic diver while staying true to its legendary heritage. This article delves into the specifics of the Rolex Submariner 2020, exploring its models, design elements, pricing, and availability, providing a comprehensive overview for watch enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.

A New Generation: Unveiling the 2020 Submariner Collection

The 2020 Submariner refresh wasn't just a minor tweak; it represented a considered evolution. While the overall aesthetic remained instantly recognizable, the changes were substantial enough to warrant significant attention. The most notable alteration was the increase in case size from 40mm to 41mm. While seemingly small, this 1mm difference had a profound impact on the watch's wrist presence and overall proportions.

The 2020 collection encompassed several variations, each catering to different tastes and preferences:

* Submariner (No-Date): The purist's choice, retaining the clean and symmetrical dial without the date window. This model, reference 124060, remained faithful to the original Submariner's utilitarian roots.

* Submariner Date: The quintessential Submariner, featuring the iconic Cyclops lens magnifying the date aperture at 3 o'clock. This variant was available in several iterations, including stainless steel, Rolesor (steel and gold), and solid gold options.

* Specific Model References: Key references from the 2020 collection included:

* 126610LN: Stainless steel Submariner Date with black dial and black Cerachrom bezel.

* 126610LV "Kermit": Stainless steel Submariner Date with black dial and green Cerachrom bezel. This model, often referred to as the "Kermit 2.0" or "Cermit," replaced the previous green bezel Submariner.

* 126613LB: Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold) Submariner Date with blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.

* 126613LN: Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold) Submariner Date with black dial and black Cerachrom bezel.

* 126618LB: Yellow gold Submariner Date with blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.

* 126618LN: Yellow gold Submariner Date with black dial and black Cerachrom bezel.

* 126619LB: White gold Submariner Date with blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.rolex submarina 2020

The Subtle Art of Refinement: Design and Features

Beyond the increased case size, the 2020 Submariner models showcased a range of subtle yet significant design enhancements. These changes contributed to a more refined and contemporary aesthetic:

* Case Proportions: While the 41mm case was a prominent change, Rolex also subtly adjusted the lug width and bracelet. The lugs were slightly slimmer and more tapered, resulting in a more elegant and balanced profile on the wrist. The bracelet was also widened by 1mm, creating a more harmonious integration with the case.

* Movement Upgrade: The most significant internal upgrade was the introduction of the Caliber 3235 movement (in the Date models) and Caliber 3230 (in the No-Date). These next-generation movements offered improved precision, reliability, and a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The Caliber 3235 and 3230 feature the Chronergy escapement, optimized for energy efficiency and magnetic resistance.

* Dial Details: The dials of the 2020 Submariner models retained the classic layout but featured subtle improvements in legibility and finishing. The Chromalight display, with its long-lasting blue luminescence, ensured excellent readability in low-light conditions.

* Cerachrom Bezel: The unidirectional rotatable bezel with its Cerachrom (ceramic) insert remained a defining feature of the Submariner. Cerachrom is highly scratch-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and impervious to fading from UV light, ensuring the bezel retains its pristine appearance for years to come. The engraved numerals and graduations on the bezel were coated with platinum or gold, depending on the model.

* Oyster Bracelet: The Oyster bracelet, a hallmark of Rolex watches, was refined for enhanced comfort and durability. It featured solid links, a folding Oysterlock safety clasp, and the Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments of the bracelet length without the need for tools. This is particularly useful for wearing the watch over a wetsuit.