Oyster Perpetual Submariner
The Reference Among Divers' Watches
The Oyster Perpetual Submariner and Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date, archetypes of the divers’ watch, epitomize the historic link between Rolex and underwater exploration.
In the early 1950s, as SCUBA diving proliferated around the world and the leisure class eagerly took to the water, it was evident that a precise, highly water-resistant timing instrument was needed to accompany each diver beneath the waves. Used to measure bottom time and the decompression stops made in order to avoid “the bends,” this watch became as life-saving as a mask or a set of fins. One model in particular would define this type of timing instrument.
Launched in 1953, the Submariner was the first divers’ wristwatch waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). The Submariner Date, with its date function in addition to the time, was introduced in 1969. The waterproofness of both models was later increased to 300 metres (1,000 feet). Thanks to their renowned robustness, they have moved beyond the marine depths, becoming watches of choice for a wide range of sports and other activities.
A true divers’ watch by design
As an underwater survival tool, the Submariner’s design has been entirely dictated by the practical needs of divers. The model has evolved technically and been endowed with features to improve overall functionality.
Featuring a 41 mm Oyster case, distinctive dial with large luminescent hour markers and hands, unidirectional rotatable bezel and Oyster bracelet, the Submariner and Submariner Date are among the most recognizable watches ever designed. Contributing to the strong visual identity, a graduated Cerachrom bezel insert made from high-tech ceramic is key to their functionality. Its 60-minute graduation allows a diver to monitor diving time accurately.
Reliability, Robustness and Functionality
The Submariner and Submariner Date’s Oyster case is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet). The Triplock winding crown – fitted with a triple waterproofness system – screws down securely against the case, providing increased water resistance
Designed to be both robust and comfortable, the Oyster bracelet is equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening, and a Rolex Glidelock extension system, allowing fine adjustment of the bracelet length without using any tools.
The Submariner and Submariner Date are equipped with calibre 3230 and calibre 3235 respectively, self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Their architecture, manufacturing and innovative features make them singularly precise and reliable. Both movements’ power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.
The Submariner and Submariner Date are equipped with calibre 3230 and calibre 3235 respectively, self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Their architecture, manufacturing and innovative features make them singularly precise and reliable. Both movements’ power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours.
Superlative chronometer certification
Like all Rolex timepieces, watches in the Submariner range are covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation testifies that every watch has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by a green seal and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.
A Key to the Deep
The Submariner was created specifically for underwater exploration and diving. When it first came out of the Rolex workshops, the watch was an immediate success with many pioneering deep-sea professionals, who were asked to test it. One of those trailblazers was Dimitri Rebikoff, a French engineer and underwater photographer.
In his 1953 report, Rebikoff wrote that it had performed outstandingly well in trials: “We are able to confirm that this watch has not only given entire satisfaction in diving conditions which were extremely tough and particularly murderous for the material used, but that it has proved an indispensable accessory for all diving with independent equipment.”
In his 1953 report, Rebikoff wrote that it had performed outstandingly well in trials: “We are able to confirm that this watch has not only given entire satisfaction in diving conditions which were extremely tough and particularly murderous for the material used, but that it has proved an indispensable accessory for all diving with independent equipment.”
Throughout the decades since the Submariner’s launch, it has evolved in pace with technological breakthroughs within the greater watch industry. As the 1950s wore on, the Submariner received an increased 200m water-resistance rating, while the late 1960s saw the first Submariner Date hit the market, offering welcome utility during everyday wear. In 1970, the Twinlock crown gave away to the even more secure Triplock system; in 1979, sapphire crystal was used for the first time in the collection. All the while, the Submariner retained its distinct design codes — a highly legible dial, a rotating dive bezel, a matching bracelet — that make it one of the most recognizable timepieces in the world.
Today, the Submariner is still relied upon both beneath and above the waves by millions of people around the world. Whether used as a tool during recreational SCUBA dives or as an day-to-day timekeeper, the Submariner is a faithful, purpose-built watch designed to be a lifelong companion. Over 70 years since its debut, it is still ticking strong.
Today, the Submariner is still relied upon both beneath and above the waves by millions of people around the world. Whether used as a tool during recreational SCUBA dives or as an day-to-day timekeeper, the Submariner is a faithful, purpose-built watch designed to be a lifelong companion. Over 70 years since its debut, it is still ticking strong.
Visit us to Discover First Hand the Submariner
JR Dunn, an Official Rolex Jeweler based in Lighthouse Point, Florida, has been serving loyal customers for over four decades. Come visit us at our 8,000-ft. showroom, conveniently located between Boca Raton and Ft. Lauderdale, to learn more about the iconic Submariner collection — a product family that has come to embody the ideal of the dive watch for more than seven decades.
