Whenever we talk about the Rolex collection of watches, there are a few specific models which stand out – the Submariner being arguably the most well-known timepiece on the market. And for good reason!
First launched in 1953, the Submariner was instantly elevated to high status for one simple reason – it was the first divers’ wristwatch which could be worn and used to a depth of 100m, while remaining completely waterproof.
Since then, the Submariner collection of watches has expanded and taken on new depths, as well as being linked with unrivalled marketing campaigns – namely the connection between the Submariner wristwatch and 007 himself, James Bond.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the history of this watch and the features that make it such an undisputed classic in the Rolex collection.
The history of the Submariner and why it was created
From its early days in 1905, the Rolex brand was created as a way to bring excellence to the market. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex, wanted to create a future in the market where wristwatches were not only accurate but timeless in design and effortlessly stylish – with his foray into the professional watch industry underpinned by that desire to lead the way through innovation.
The Submariner aimed to reach new depths by giving divers a functional, practical, reliable, and stylish watch to wear underwater. With the 6204 being the first Submariner which debuted on the market, it’s important to note that it was not actually the first diving watch to be released to the market – however, the brand prestige and quality makes it one of the most successful timepiece launches of all time.
Key features of the Rolex Submariner
Of course, the overriding benefit of the Submariner from a user perspective, and one which has underpinned every new model since 1953, is the waterproof build quality which enables the watch to be used to monitor dive time and depth without the risk of damage. One of the biggest selling points remains the fact that the Submariner is sleek in design and effortlessly stylish, even with this huge user benefit – one of the reasons why it remains so popular, even with buyers who have no intention of diving while wearing the watch.
As quoted by Rolex themselves, the unidirectional bezel is one of the key features in its design, though this was once held under patent by another brand – meaning Rolex had to operate with a bidirectional bezel until the 1980s. Other features which enhance the functional use of the Submariner include the hard and corrosion-resistant ceramic bezel, and the indented edges of the bezel which allow for easy grip even underwater and when wearing diving gloves.
Most of the features that can be found on a modern Submariner have been integrated and improved over time, optimising the functionality as well as the practicality of the watch. But one thing that remains very much the same, from 1953 up until the most recent Submariner new release in 2020, is the design and the approach to timeless style.
As the Rolex Submariner continues to evolve, maintaining its reputation for excellence, functionality, and timeless design, it’s no wonder why it stands as a symbol of enduring style. Whether you’re a diver exploring the depths or someone who simply appreciates the artistry of a well-crafted timepiece, the Submariner remains a coveted accessory. If you’re looking to make a statement with both style and substance, perhaps it’s time to explore the world of Rolex and discover the appeal of a watch that transcends trends – and if you’re considering upgrading or parting with your current Rolex, there’s a thriving market waiting for those looking to sell Rolex watches in Chandler and all acroos the US, allowing you to embrace the timeless elegance of the Submariner in a new way.
How has the Submariner changed over the years?
From a functional perspective, the changes have been monumental – enabling each new release and new model of the Rolex Submariner to be taken to greater depths and used in a variety of different ways. But amid those updates and upgrades, the aesthetic of the watch remains classic and uncomplicated – something which lends this particular model of watch to its status as one of the most popular luxury watches on the market.
And what better way to solidify that coveted, highly sought-after status, than with a few famous connections – namely that which exists between the Submariner watch and Sean Connery’s James Bond. The Submariner appears in a total of eight Bond movies and is worn with everything from a wetsuit to an evening suit – demonstrating to buyers everywhere that this is an investment for all occasions.
Submariner’s also fall into many collections owned by the rich and famous, with the professional status of this timepiece, and its extensive history, creating demand which is set to continue growing as more watches are sold, purchased, and re-released on the second hand market.