The Rolex Submariner. The name itself conjures images of daring underwater exploration, rugged adventure, and timeless elegance. This iconic timepiece, a staple of Hollywood action heroes and discerning collectors alike, boasts a rich history and a complex lineage. While it wasn't the very first dive watch (that honor is debated depending on your definition and historical perspective), its influence on the genre is undeniable, setting the standard for decades and inspiring countless imitations. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the fascinating world of the Rolex Submariner, covering its history, different models, sizing, pricing, and even providing resources for accessing manuals.
A Historical Dive into the Submariner's Origins:
If you read up enough about the early life of the Rolex Submariner, you could be forgiven for thinking it was the very first dive watch ever made. However, the reality is more nuanced. While Rolex played a pivotal role in establishing the modern dive watch, other brands were experimenting with water-resistant timepieces earlier. The Submariner's true innovation lay not just in its water resistance, but in its robust construction, its practicality for professional divers, and its integration of crucial features specifically designed for underwater use. Its emergence coincided with a burgeoning interest in underwater exploration post-World War II, perfectly capturing the spirit of a new era of discovery.
The early Submariners, dating back to the late 1950s, were groundbreaking for their time. They featured features that are now considered standard in dive watches, but were revolutionary then: a unidirectional rotating bezel (crucial for tracking dive time), a robust oyster case offering superior water resistance, and a highly legible dial designed for optimal underwater visibility. The evolution of the Submariner has been a gradual process, with subtle yet significant changes in design, materials, and movements reflecting advancements in horological technology.
Rolex Submariner Models Guide: Navigating the Generations:
The Rolex Submariner's enduring popularity is partly due to its consistent evolution. Understanding the different models is key to appreciating its history and the nuances of each iteration. While a complete cataloging of every variant would be a monumental task, we can categorize the key distinctions:
* Early Models (Ref. 6204-6205): These represent the foundational Submariners, often characterized by smaller cases (approximately 37mm), simpler dials, and sometimes the absence of crown guards. These are highly sought-after collector's pieces, reflecting the watch's origins and representing a piece of horological history.
* The 5512 and 5513: These references represent a significant step forward, featuring slightly larger cases and improved water resistance. The 5513, in particular, enjoyed a remarkably long production run, making it a very common, yet highly desirable, Submariner model. They are often considered the epitome of the "classic" Submariner.
* The 1680: This model introduced the date complication to the Submariner lineage, a feature that has remained a staple in subsequent models. The cyclops magnifying lens over the date window was also added, further enhancing readability. The 1680 also saw variations in bezel inserts and dial markings.
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