The Rolex Submariner is a legendary watch that has become a symbol of luxury and prestige. Its timeless design, impeccable craftsmanship, and outstanding performance have made it a favorite of watch collectors and enthusiasts all over the world. The Submariner has been produced in various references throughout its history, each with its own unique features and specifications that have contributed to its popularity and collectibility. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 5 Rolex Submariner references ever produced.
1. Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 is a legendary timepiece that has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1966. It is known as the first Submariner model to feature a date function, displayed through a magnified lens on the crystal. The Ref. 1680 also features a larger case and a new Calibre 1575 movement, providing a higher level of accuracy and reliability. The watch has since become a classic design, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
One of the notable features of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 is its durability and water resistance. With a depth rating of 200 meters, it was designed for use by professional divers and has been worn by some of the most renowned adventurers in history. The watch’s rugged construction and dependable performance have made it a favorite of military personnel, explorers, and divers around the world.
Despite being over five decades old, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 remains a highly sought-after timepiece today. Its timeless design, unparalleled durability, and legendary status make it a true icon in the world of luxury watches. Whether worn as a tool watch or a stylish accessory, the Ref. 1680 is a testament to Rolex‘s commitment to producing high-quality timepieces that stand the test of time.
2. Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 is another iconic timepiece from the Swiss luxury watchmaker, introduced in the 1960s and produced until the late 1980s. The Ref. 5513 is known for its classic and minimalist design, featuring a black dial with luminescent markers and hands. Unlike the Ref. 1680, the Ref. 5513 did not include a date function, making it a purist’s choice for those who prefer a simpler and more traditional Submariner.
One of the unique features of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 is its longevity. Despite being produced for over two decades, the design remained virtually unchanged throughout its production run, making it a timeless classic that still looks great today. The watch also featured a larger crown guard, providing greater protection to the winding crown and enhancing its water resistance capabilities. Like other Submariner models, the Ref. 5513 was built to withstand the rigors of professional diving, with a depth rating of 200 meters.
Today, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 is a highly sought-after watch among collectors, with examples in good condition fetching high prices at auctions and in the vintage watch market. Its classic design, rugged construction, and legendary status make it a true icon in the world of luxury watches, beloved by watch enthusiasts around the globe.
3. Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538 is often referred to as the “James Bond” Submariner because it was the watch worn by Sean Connery’s James Bond in the 1962 film “Dr. No.” The Ref. 6538 became an instant icon after its appearance in the film, and subsequent Bond films featuring Connery also prominently featured the watch. Its association with the famous spy has helped to cement its place in popular culture and make it one of the most recognizable watches in the world.
One of the distinctive features of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538 is its oversized crown, known as the “big crown.” This design feature is intended to make it easier to manipulate the crown while wearing gloves, making it ideal for use by divers and other professionals who may be working in harsh environments. The Ref. 6538 also featured a rotating bezel for tracking dive times and a luminous dial for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
Today, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538 is a rare and highly collectible watch. Examples in good condition can fetch prices in the hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. The watch’s timeless design and historical significance make it a true icon in the world of luxury watches, and its connection to one of the most famous fictional characters of all time only adds to its allure.
4. Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 is a classic and iconic watch that was introduced in 1989 and produced until 2010. The Ref. 16610 includes a unidirectional rotating bezel, luminescent hour markers and hands, and a depth rating of 300 meters, making it a reliable and versatile diving watch. It was also one of the last Submariner models to feature an aluminum bezel insert before the introduction of the Cerachrom ceramic bezel in the Ref. 116610.
The Ref. 16610 was powered by the Caliber 3135 movement, which was known for its accuracy and reliability. The movement featured Rolex’s patented Parachrom hairspring and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch also included a solid-link Oyster bracelet with a secure folding Oysterlock safety clasp, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist.
Today, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 remains a highly sought-after watch among collectors and enthusiasts. Its classic design, robust construction, and association with the Submariner legacy make it a true icon in the world of luxury watches. The Ref. 16610 is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to producing high-quality timepieces that stand the test of time, and it continues to be a popular choice for those who appreciate the timeless style and exceptional craftsmanship of Rolex watches.
5. Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610 is a modern iteration of the iconic Submariner watch. Introduced in 2010, it features a contemporary design while retaining the classic look and feel of the original Submariner. The Ref. 116610 includes a Cerachrom ceramic bezel, which is resistant to scratches and fading, and a larger Triplock winding crown, enhancing the watch’s water resistance to 300 meters. The watch also features Rolex’s proprietary Chromalight luminescent material, which provides improved visibility in low-light conditions.
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610 is powered by the Caliber 3135 movement, which is known for its accuracy and reliability. The movement features Rolex’s patented Parachrom hairspring, which provides greater resistance to shocks and temperature changes. The watch also includes a Glidelock clasp, which allows for easy adjustments to the bracelet size, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Today, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610 is a highly sought-after watch among collectors and enthusiasts. Its modern design, high-quality construction, and technical innovations make it a popular choice for those who appreciate Rolex’s commitment to excellence. The Ref. 116610 is a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Submariner watch, providing a perfect blend of classic and modern design elements.
Final Thoughts
The Rolex Submariner is a watch that has stood the test of time, and its various references throughout its history have become highly collectible and valuable. The top 5 Submariner references ever produced, including the Ref. 1680, Ref. 5513, Ref. 6538, Ref. 16610, and Ref. 116610, each have their own unique features and specifications that have contributed to their popularity and collectibility. Whether you are a watch collector or enthusiast, these references are definitely worth considering adding to your collection.
FAQs
- What makes Rolex Submariner watches so popular? Rolex Submariner watches are popular due to their timeless design, impeccable craftsmanship, and outstanding performance.
- Why are Rolex Submariner references highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts? Rolex Submariner references are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance, rarity, and association with famous figures.
- Are Rolex Submariner watches good investments? Yes, Rolex Submariner watches are good investments due to their collectibility, durability, and value retention.
- What is the difference between a Rolex Submariner and a Rolex Submariner Date? The Rolex Submariner Date features a date function on the dial, while the Rolex Submariner does not.
- Can you recommend any other Rolex Submariner references worth collecting? Other Rolex Submariner references worth collecting include the Ref. 5512, Ref. 16800, and Ref. 114060.
