rolex submarino | which Rolex submariner to buy

Discover the Submariner models. These underwater tool watches have become icons of horological excellence, transcending their original purpose to become symbols of adventure, precision, and enduring style. From their humble beginnings as professional diving instruments to their current status as coveted luxury items, the Rolex Submariner story is one of constant innovation, meticulous engineering, and unwavering commitment to quality. This article delves deep into the world of the Submariner, exploring its rich history, diverse models, pricing intricacies, and ultimately guiding you on how to choose the perfect Submariner for your wrist.

The Genesis of an Icon: A Brief History

The Rolex Submariner was first introduced in 1953, a pioneering tool watch designed to meet the rigorous demands of underwater exploration. It was one of the first watches to achieve a water resistance rating of 100 meters (330 feet), a significant feat at the time. This breakthrough was made possible by Rolex's patented Oyster case, a hermetically sealed enclosure that protected the delicate movement from the elements.

The early Submariner models, such as the reference 6204, were characterized by their clean, functional designs, featuring a rotating bezel for tracking elapsed dive time and a highly legible dial. These early iterations laid the foundation for the Submariner's enduring design language, which has been refined and improved upon over the decades.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the Submariner continued to evolve, with improvements in water resistance, bezel design, and movement technology. Notable models from this era include the 6538, famously worn by Sean Connery as James Bond in several films, and the 5513, a non-chronometer rated Submariner that became a favorite among professional divers and military personnel.

The introduction of the date function in the late 1960s marked another significant milestone in the Submariner's history. The reference 1680 was the first Submariner to feature a date window at the 3 o'clock position, accompanied by a Cyclops lens on the crystal for enhanced readability. This feature, while controversial to some purists, proved immensely popular and has become a standard feature on many Submariner models.rolex submarino

The modern era of the Submariner began in the late 1980s with the introduction of the reference 16610. This model featured a sapphire crystal, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and the improved Caliber 3135 movement. The 16610 remained in production for over two decades, becoming one of the most popular and recognizable Submariner models of all time.

Discovering the Submariner Models: A Comprehensive Overview

The Rolex Submariner collection is comprised of a variety of models, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Understanding the different models is crucial for making an informed decision when purchasing a Submariner.

The Core Collection:

* Submariner (No Date): The purist's choice, this model retains the original Submariner's clean, symmetrical dial without a date window. The current reference is the 124060. It features a 41mm Oystersteel case, a black Cerachrom bezel insert, and the Caliber 3230 movement.

* Submariner Date: This model features a date window at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by the Cyclops lens. The current references include:

* 126610LN: Oystersteel case with a black Cerachrom bezel insert and black dial.

* 126610LV ("Kermit"): Oystersteel case with a green Cerachrom bezel insert and black dial, a modern interpretation of the iconic "Kermit" Submariner.

* 126613LN: Yellow Rolesor (Oystersteel and 18 ct yellow gold) case with a black Cerachrom bezel insert and black dial.

* 126613LB: Yellow Rolesor (Oystersteel and 18 ct yellow gold) case with a blue Cerachrom bezel insert and blue dial.

* 126618LN: 18 ct yellow gold case with a black Cerachrom bezel insert and black dial.

* 126618LB: 18 ct yellow gold case with a blue Cerachrom bezel insert and blue dial.

* 126619LB: 18 ct white gold case with a blue Cerachrom bezel insert and black dial (often referred to as the "Smurf").

Key Features Across the Current Collection:

* 41mm Case: All current Submariner models feature a slightly larger 41mm case, offering a more modern and substantial presence on the wrist.