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THE Pre OMEGA ERA

In 1848 the amazing and passionate Louis Brandt took a very small first step into OMEGA empire with the opening of a small workshop in La Chaux- de-Fonds in the Swiss countryside.

In 1879 Louis Brandt dies and the family business passed to his sons Louis Paul and Cesar, they were the ones that took Omega to its next new era creating the empire that we all now know.

In 1880 Omega is moving to Bienne in 119 Route De Boujean that till now is considered as its home. Five years later in 1885 the two brothers is launching the first series of caliber, ” The Labrator”. This technical breakthrough gave the opportunity to Omega to shine like a true star in the watch industry.

In 1892 the first minute repeater came to life by the famous Brandt’s, recreating the pocket watches mechanism into a fine high end wrist watch.

THE OMEGA ERA

1894 was the most important year in the history of OMEGA as it is when OMEGA is actually born through their new extremely accurate new Caliber called OMEGA. It was not only extremely accurate but every component could be replaced by any watchmaker. This new era brought OMEGA to becoming in less than a decade one of the most important watch companies globally.

1905 SPORTS ERA

OMEGA started its official presence in sports, only in 1905 was the official timekeeper for 16 sports events globally as the only choice in terms of accuracy and precision. Two of the main characteristics of OMEGA from the launch of OMEGA Caliber.

1909 gone GLOBAL

In 1909 they are deciding to expand its network globally including six more continents in its expansion strategy. Its amazing watches are becoming a global hit instantly.

1925 ART DECO

In 1925 the first ART DECO series is launched and gets its first award at the ” Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes” in Paris. Its unique timepieces stands out for the amazing and colorful design and special patterns.

OMEGA ART DECO
OMEGA ART DECO

1931 RECOGNITION YEAR

In 1931 OMEGA celebrated its unique positioning in the watch industry with a unique award that celebrated the company’s excellence in precision and accuracy. OMEGA chronometer managed to pass 6 out of 6 test in accuracy and set new standards to the industry.

FIRST AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT

It is the second time that OMEGA set the global standards in the watch industry as it prototyped the first automatic movement that used two weights, enabling winding in both directions. This had as a result improving in the most drastic way the winding and later on automatic movement that later on was perceived as the standard in the watch industry.

1932 MARINE

OMEGA is introducing the first watch for divers that was tested in Geneva lake and proved to be waterproof in 73 meters depth and becoming the choice of many divers.

OMEGA MARINE
OMEGA MARINE

1937 MEDICURE or THE NURSES WATCH

The first watch ever featuring a second big hand that was easy to read, also known as the “nurses watch” as a lot of medical staff was using it due to this special characteristic.

OMEGA MEDICURE
OMEGA MEDICURE

1946 TUBOGAS

In 1946 TUBOGASS was presented, using for the first time pink gold and launching them originally for the French market. Its Parisian designer Maison Brandt Freres with its tubogass bracelet that the model was named after was the most amazing add in the companys Art Deco collection.

 

1947 FIRST TOURBILLON MOVEMENT

OMEGA once more was ahead of its time as in 1947 is creating the first Tourbillon movement, a quite complex mechanism that was able to eliminate gravity

1948 SEAMASTER

In 1948 following its history in diving watches launching the really successful for the brand SEAMASTER collection that could overcome every challenge the ocean was bringing.  Due to its reliability, accuracy and water resistance

1952 CONSTELLATION

In 1952 Constellation is introduced, named after the eight stars representing the eight precision records omega set at the Geneva Observatory and Kew Teddington.

1955 LADYMATIC

In 1955 Ladymatic is presented the first automatic and compact ladies watch, its movement was the smallest automatic movement.

1957 PROFFESIONAL LINE (Speedmaster, Seamaster and Railmaster)

Three iconic watches launched in 1957, the Speedmaster, the Seamaster 300 and the Railmaster. Its is important to note that is also know as The Moonwatch due to its collaboration with NASA in 1962 where astronaut Wally Schirra performed his flight in space with Mercury Sigma 7 wearing his amazing Speedmaster. Three years later in 1965 the only watch that took NASA Cerification was the Speedmaster.

1967 DE VILLE

in 1967 it is launched a simple version of Seamaster the De Ville, combining all the technical characteristic of Seamaster in a simpler version.

1970 Snoopy Award

NASA awarded the SNOOPY AWARD for the outstanding performance of the Moon watch,  after this amazing watch in the years to come launched bOmega Speedmaster Professional “Silver Snoopy Award” for its 50th Anniversary 310.32.42.50.02.001  and in 2023 in Collaboration with Swatch, is naming one of the watches “Snoopy”.

 

1997 JAMES BOND

In 1997 Tomorrow Never Dies, James Bond is wearing a Seamaster Diver 300M.

1999 Co Axial

In 1999 the inventor George Daniels is developing Co- Axial, the new watch from Rolex that uses smaller contact surfaces and produces less frictions.

2010 LADYMATIC

In 2010 Ladymatic returns back in production with a new Co-Axial movement

 

 

Want to learn more about Rolex History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

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CARTIER Baignoire

The amazing CARTIER Baignoire was introduced by Cartier in 1912. This amazing watch was created by Louis Cartier that captured in a magical way a new version of the classic round watch into something really unique. As odd as it seems the new watch had the shape of a bathtub in french a Baignoire!

Small model yellow gold, alligator strap and Quartz movement.

CARTIER Baignoire
CARTIER Baignoire

The Baignoire Allongee with its white gold set diamonds case with brilliant cut and an alligator strap combined with its 1917 MC manual movement.

CARTIER Baignoire
CARTIER Baignoire

 

Favoured from many important women in the past such as Catherine Deneuve and Romy Schneider.

 

Want to learn more about Cartier History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

The famous Louis Cartier first introduced in 1906 the Tonneau-barrel shaped cases, where Tonneau in the french word for barrel.  Just two years after the introduction of the famous Santos, the first men watch with a square shape.

THE TONNEAU Milestones

In 1906 Cartier is interrupting the tradition of pocket watches quite famous till now with the introduction of Tonneau.

in 1907 Cartier is women’s version that keeps the shape of the Tonneau case and add a sparkle with the amazing bracelets made from natural pearls, platinum and gold.

CARTIER TONNEAU
CARTIER TONNEAU

In 1911 Cartier is changing the way the lugs are connecting with the case and introduce the famous tube screws.

In 1924 in New York, Cartier is adopting a more girly approach that is reflected to its unique model that combines in the most absolute way the pearl bracelet with the pave diamonds on the case.

Moving one decades later  the Tonneau collection comes back in 2004 with a model that personally brings me back a lot of memories of 1911. This specific model comes with a diamond bezel and a toile poudree strap.

In 2005 Cartier is introducing a unique men’s watch that is featuring a dual time zone.

Cartier Tonneau Dual Time
Cartier Tonneau Dual Time

In 2019 Cartier is coming back with two amazing models an updated design of the previous models and a skeleton dual time zone a certainly upgraded and beautiful version of the 2005 model.

Want to learn more about Cartier History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

 

AUDEMARS PIQUET ROYAL OAK History

AUDEMARS PIQUET ROYAL OAK, the iconic watch that forever changed the history of AP was designed by the amazing Gerald Genta. In 1970 AP reached out this amazing watch genius in order to design a watch, inspired by the vintage diving helmet attached to the rest of the suit with screws Gerald Genta presented this magnificent model

1972, ROYAL OAK JUMBO

In 1972 AUDEMARS PIQUET ROYAL OAK was presented to the public under the Reference 5402ST with Calibre 2121,  Movement 127059. Bracelet 344, T21 Tapisserie dial, Case 67026, 39 mm available in steel but priced as much as a gold watch due to its unique characteristics. This amazing first model remained the same until 1976 but was categorized in 4 different series A,B,C and D.

It is important to note that as AP had under 100 employees the number of watches were limited therefore A series was limited to 2.000 pieces and therefore it is known as the A Series. It was also called Jumbo due to its 39mm diameter which was also the cause of its limited sales track.  In years to come Audemar Patek launched Models 14802 (1992), 15002 (1996), 15202 (2000) and 16202 (2022).

ROYAL OAK
ROYAL OAK 5402ST

 

1976, ROYAL OAK II 8638

The need for a womens version of this amazing watch was obvious and this was able to come in life with the arrival of Audemars Piguet’s first female designer, Jacqueline Dimier. The birth of 8638 was a reality, made of steel, with its characteristic visible screws, self winding mechanism, Calibre 2062 (Rayville – LeCoultre blank)with its 29 mm diameter that made it extremely challenging to be produced.

In 1977 and onwards 8638 was created in two-tone and yellow gold versions. In 1978 the first white gold version was produced. A success from day one and according to AP records in 1976, 423 watches were sold in 1977,  1,000 units in 1978 and from the year it was obvious that it was a huge success for the company. In 1908’s the 8638 replaced its self winding movement with quartz.

ROYAL OAK II 8638ST
ROYAL OAK II 8638ST

1977, ROYAL OAK III

1977 was a really important year as AP introduced three new models 5402 and 8638 in three variations yellow and white gold as well as steel and yellow gold. Parallel with the introduction of the iconic 4100 known as ROYAL OAK III in 35MM and the 900.

ROYAL OAK III 4100

Designed by Jacqueline Dimier, Model 4100 sometimes appears in the sources under the name “Royal Oak III”. This model responds to growing demand in certain markets where the first 39 mm had not proved very popular.  Due to its popularity until 1981 AP introduced 27 new references.

AUDEMARS PIGUETROYAL OAK III
AUDEMARS PIGUET
ROYAL OAK III

Evolution  of Royal Oak throughout the years!

1977 introducing 35 MM

References 4100 followed by 4153, 4331, 14544, 14486, 14567, 14575, 14674

1983 introducing 36 MM with a combination of:

  • Day Date for 5572, 5581, 5584
  • Moon Phases 5658, 5595
  • Three Hand Models 14498 (1986), 14700 (1990) plus 14701, 14702 and 14704

Want to learn more about the history of Audemars Piquet? Check our article here

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics

AUDEMARS PIQUET History

AUDEMARS PIQUET, one of the most iconic Swiss watch companies founded in 1875 by two young and ambitious watchmakers Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet. This two young men created their workshop in the home town, Le Brauss deeply believing that they could be helped by the network that Vallée de Joux’s was providing to all watchmakers as it was considered as the hub of all watch companies.

This was the start of the creation of unique complicated mechanisms handcrafted in a period that was the start of industrialisation and everything seemed to go in that direction. Against all obstacles they managed to create a line that till know it is one of the most famous lines in the watch world, the famous ROYAL OAK.

AUDEMARS PIQUET
Jules Louis Audemars

 

AUDEMARS PIQUET
Jules Louis Audemars

AUDEMARS PIQUET Milestones

1868

Audemars Piguet’s first building ,  where Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet set their watch lab in Le Brassus.

1907 

Set their second workshop next to the first one an important milestone as it gave them the ability to expand their buiness and extend their growth in a whole new level.

1970

The birth of the legendary Royal Oak with Reference Number 5402 only in steel but with its unique design and characteristics matched the price of gold watches.

GERALD GENTA AND Audemars Piquet Royal Oak

One of the most important partnerships that defined the future of Audemars Piquet was the collaboration with Maestro and the creation of one of the most iconic watches for the brand, Royal Oak. In 1970, they reached out in order to design a new watch . It was Inspired by a vintage diving helmet attached to the rest of the suit with screws, the model was sketched in just one night. The designer transferred the octagonal shape to the design of this piece, keeping the screws on the bezel. The Royal Oak was the first luxury sports watch that was ever made from steel and changed forever the perception of this metal and its position in luxury watches.

1976

The birth of the first ladies’ Royal Oak with Reference Number 8638, the beginning of an exclusive collection for women.

1977

In the collection the choice of gold was added as well as other sizes and movements.

1977-1981

This was one of the most creative and productive periods for the company as 27 new models were added in the original collection boosting the reputation and sales of the company and creating a fanatic audience forever in love with the excellence and the aesthetics of the company.

 

One of the most famous designers for Audemars Piguet was “THE INCREDIBLE GERALD GENTA”

 

 

 

CARTIER TANK was introduced to the global market in 1917 from the iconic Louis Cartier. It is considered one of the most iconic watches in the history and quite loved by many celebrities as it balances in a unique way the structure simple but so elegant and timeless.  The inspiration behind this iconic watch comes from the Renault military tanks that attracted the attention of Louis Cartier in the Western Front, decoding its design the straps are integrated into its vertical sidebars called brancards reflecting the design of the tracks and the case for the vehicle’s cabin.

 

CARTIER TANK CINTRÉE, circa 1921

Cartier Cintrée was introduced in 1921  just two years after the launch of Cartier Tank and considered as the epitome of luxury and elegance that characterise Cartier. Although Cartier Cintrée was extremely popular in the two decades following its launch the production of this watch was limited, therefore are considered rare and highly collective.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER TANK CINTRÉE

It is important to note that for the 100 Years Anniversary of Tank Cartier also introduced Tank Cintrée Skeleton, a bold statement I may add in the history of this amazing watch, that took the line to a whole different level.

CARTIER CINTRÉE SKELETON
CARTIER TANK CINTRÉE SKELETON

CARTIER TANK CHINOISE, circa 1922

Cartier Chinoise was introduced in 1922, reflecting a combination of Cartier with Asian culture, specifically its unique pattern that can be spotted in the dial of the entry gates of Asian temples. “Chinoise” is translated as Chinese in French.

CARTIER TANK CHINOISE
CARTIER TANK CHINOISE

CARTIER TANK À GUICHET, circa 1928

Cartier Guichet was introduced to the market in 1928 as a limited edition watch for very important clients, with its small window “Guichets” in french is hiding its dial with this magnificent platinum case. a very important and minimalistic I might say watch for very minimalistic people.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER TANK À GUICHET

CARTIER TANK BANSCULANTE, circa 1933

The Basculante from the french reverse was introduced in 1932, as sports were quite popular the need for a watch that could be protected while they were playing sports was a must.  With its flip case the proud owner could flip the case and protect the watch from any possible damage.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER TANK BANSCULANTE

 

CARTIER TANK MONOPOUSSOIR CHRONOGRAPH, circa 1935

Cartier Monopoussoir introduced in 1935, a very limited and exclusive collection with its unique shape and chronograph.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER TANK MONOPOUSSOIR CHRONOGRAPH

CARTIER TANK ASYMÉTRIQUE, circa 1936

in 1936 Cartier introduced a very interesting watch with a unique and impressive asymmetrical case, featuring a diagonal orientation of the dial making a bold statement in the watch industry.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER TANK ASYMÉTRIQUE

 

CARTIER TANK MUST, circa 1977

The Cartier Must first launched in 1977, it was considered as the successful  attempt of Cartier in order to overcome the Swiss quartz crisis. Going back in time Cartier was facing through out 1970s a big crisis in its sales of luxury watches therefore it was crucial to produce a more affordable yet elegant new line that would be complete with a full line of accessories and this is how Cartier Must line was captured. With its monochrome dial was a  watch that could be easily addressed to both women and men.

CARTIER TANK MUST
CARTIER TANK MUST

 

CARTIER TANK AMÉRICAINE, circa 1989

The Cartier Americaine was first presented in 1989. Taking its inspiration from the Cartier Cintrée (1921), it featured a larger and more squared dial combined with a waterproof case in order to serve the requests of many clients that were used to the freedom of the waterproof watches had to offer.

CARTIER TANK AMERICAINE
CARTIER TANK AMERICAINE

CARTIER TANK FRANÇAISE, circa 1996

Cartier Francaise was introduced in 1996, with its so characteristic dial and bancards as described above and its strict vertical bezel and its stainless steal or gold bracelet. It was an important milestone for Cartier as they replace their favorite leather and exotic straps.

CARTIER TANK FRANÇAISE
CARTIER TANK FRANÇAISE

CARTIER TANK SOLO, circa 2004

The Cartier Solo was introduced in 2004 as the version that could be addressed to a wider audience that loved Cartier. Its unique aesthetic, is kept in a much simpler version.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER SOLO

CARTIER TANK MC, circa 2013

CARIER MC with its  larger case, inspired by strong symmetrical dimensions parallel with its small seconds counter, a true example of Cartier perfection, power and elegance.  The “MC” stands for “Manufacture Cartier”, cause its caliber 1904 MC automatic movement,  is created inside the magical headquarters of Cartier.

CARTIER TANK
CARTIER MC

 

 

 

 

Want to learn more about Cartier History? Check out our article that describes how everything started.

Feel free to contact and share your thoughts with us your feedback is important as we are trying to create a unique interactive community for all the watch fanatics.

CARTIER BALLON BLUE History

The Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch was created in 2007 as Cartier wanted to add to its magnificent collection something new that would challenge the watch world. Its unique aesthetic made a huge impact to the watch society, inspired from Balloons therefore the round shape reflected in its designs taking its name from the french “ballon” with its unique winding mechanism that add the BLUE in its name with the characteristic unique sapphire crown trademark for the Cartier watches.

CARTIER BALLON BLUE
CARTIER BALLON BLUE

CARTIER BALLON BLUE Designs

Cartier Ballon Blue throughout the years and the milestones over the designs evolution from 2007 till present:

Blue Sapphire Cabochon: Its trademark blue sapphire integrated perfectly in its secured case to eliminate the cracks of the glass.

Cartier Ballon
Blue Sapphire Cabochon

Roman Index: The Roman hour markers in the rounded case excellent example of the unique Cartier design

Cartier Ballon Numerals
Cartier Numerals

Guilloché Dial: The unique guilloché dial that decorates the Cartier watches with its unique patterns representing waves and sunrays.

Cartier Ballon Guilloché Dial
Cartier Guilloché Dial

 

  • Rounded Case: The perfectly rounded case is a departure from the traditional rectangular shapes seen in other Cartier collections. It offers a modern, elegant look.
  • Blue Sapphire Cabochon: The crown is adorned with a blue sapphire cabochon, which is seamlessly integrated into the case design. This flash of colour is a classic Cartier design feature. In other designs we can find a spinel Crown.
  • Roman Numerals: The classic Roman numeral hour markers are slightly distorted by the curvature of the case, adding a unique visual effect.
  • Guilloché Dial: Many Ballon Bleu models feature a guilloché dial, showcasing Cartier’s commitment to exquisite craftsmanship.
  • Sword-Shaped Hands: The blue steel hands are a signature detail of Cartier watches.
  • Versatile Strap Options: Available with both metal bracelets and leather straps, allowing for a personalized touch.

CARTIER BALLON Materials and Finishes

The Ballon Bleu de Cartier is available in a variety of materials to cater to different preferences and occasions:

  • Stainless Steel: This unique material offers an easy to wear watch for everyday life
  • Yellow Gold: Ballon Blue in yellow gold offers a touch of luxury. An elegant amazing watch.
  • Rose Gold: This new material that is trending in high end jewellery. A loved one that creates a unique aesthetic.
  • Two-Tone: Do you want to wear something luxury and yet that can be adopted in everyday life then this is the combination for you.
  • Diamond-Set: For the people that just want to feel the luxury of precious stones in their everyday life.

Do you want to learn more about the history of Cartier! Check our article here 

CARTIER SANTOS

Created in 1904 from Alberto Santos- Dumont and therefore the watch was named after its creator. Alberto Santos was a man with many talents. A well known Brazilian aeronaut, sportsman and inventor that played an important role at the early development of aircrafts. The collaboration with Cartier started in 1901 when Alberto Santos Dumont asked from Louis Cartier to create a unique watch that he could use while he was piloting. And this was the beginning of the birth of one of the most iconic watches for Cartier, the unique Santos De Cartier

CARTIER SANTOS 90th Anniversary

In 1994 was marked with the 90th anniversary of the Santos Cartier therefore they came out with a limited edition Santos in platinum with salmon dial and Breguet style hands.

CARTIER SANTOS
CARTIER SANTOS

Wanto to learn more regarding the history of Cartier? Please check our amazing article here

 

CARTIER HISTORY, The Beginning

Cartier HISTORY is a very interesting  one that started 2 centuries ago. The beginning was in the city of light, in Paris on the 2nd December of 1819 when Louis-François Cartier was born. Nothing could prepare the world of what was about to happen as the chance was not on Louis Francois side. Cartier was born in a middle class modest family and nothing could prepare us or imply that this young men would be one of the most important names in the history of jewellery and watch making, symbolising in the next few years the elegance and perfection.

His father was Pierre a metal worker while his mother Elisabeth worked as a laundry woman. When he finished school he completed a watchmaker apprenticeship under Adolph Picard. Pierre turned up to be  an intelligent young businessman, jeweler and watch maker and these three charismatic elements of his personality unique combination made Cartier the iconic brand that we now love.  

CARTIER HISTORY
CARTIER HISTORY

CARTIER History 1847

Louis-François was only 28 years old when he founded Cartier, in 1847.  As Louis took over his employer’s store on the famous Parisian street Rue Montorgueil he started forming a new strategy that would attract a broader new audience. 

This was a historic moment for the jewellery world as Louis-François  was the first to introduce ‘imaginative jewellery’ as well as ‘fashion and novelty items’. As this was his first experiment towards that direction, the collection that he created was actually a curated selection of designs coming from local jewels manufacturers that were sold under his own brand.  Almost ten years later in 1853 Cartier decided to move his store to Place du Palais-Royale, a posh street with high end shops. 

In 1859 Louis-François opened his second shop at Boulevard des Italiens. This time the opening was grande as Cartier was endorsed by Princess Mathilde and Empress Eugenie marking his international successful future as a globally recognised high end jewellery brand.  

1859, Cartier Boulevard des Italiens.

In 1874 Louis-François son Alfred joined the family business broadening the product connection and working parallel with his father on this amazing business journey. The successful team were able to broaden the aristocratic clients of the brand. 

In 1899 Louis moved the Parisian brand to Rue de la Paix. Louis Cartier is considered to be as one of the most important creators of the revolutional watches that Cartier presented as he was the creative mind behind the famous mystery clock. Mystery Clock was a type of clock with a transparent dial and was named mystery as its mechanism was hidden. Louis created also fashionable wristwatches and exotic orientalist Art Deco designs, including the colourful “Tutti Frutti” jewels.

1993 RICHEMONT GROUP

In 1993 Cartier was sold to Richemont Group 

In 2024 Richemont appointed as the new CEOs at Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels Louis Fera following his successful previous career as the CEO of Vacheron Costantin since 2017. 

Find more regarding Cartier and the Panthere Collection.

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Rolex Submariner is one of the most important watches in the Rolex Collection.

ROLEX SUMBARINER 6204

The first model was launched in 1953 with Reference Number 6204 and is considered one of the most unique collective watches as its is the First Submariner A.260.

ROLEX SUMBARINER 6204 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6204
CIRCA: 1953
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
BRACELET / STRAP SIZE: 7.1 inches
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: A260

ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCE 6204
ROLEX SUBMARINER REFERENCE 6204

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6205

The following years (1954) the second First Submarine A.260 was launched with reference number 6205

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6205 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6205
CIRCA: 1954
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: A260
rolexsubmariner6205
rolexsubmariner6205

ROLEX SUBMARINER  6200

In 1954 it was introduced the Rolex Submariner  Ref6200  A.296

ROLEX SUBMARINER  6200 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6200
CIRCA: 1954
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: A296

rolexsubmariner6200
rolexsubmariner6200

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6538

In 1954 Rolex introduced Rolex Submariner with Reference 6538 -1030 the one featured in the photo below is a special one with this amazing unique tropical dial. It is also known as Big Crown due to its 8mm Crown and one of the most sought out watches as it was the watch of James Bond in Dr No!

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6538 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6538
CIRCA: 1954
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1030

rolexsubmariner6538
RolexSubmariner6538

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6538A

The Rolex Submariner 6538A the Military Submariner 1030 also known as “Coroncione”. It is considered one of the first Single Red Submariner as it has this red depth rating on the lower part of index.  It is said but not confirmed by Rolex that they we only 21 watches produced under that specific reference due to the spacial need of the Royal Marine to be able to spin the bezel with their diving gloves. As the production of this watch was so limited the 6538A is considered one of the rarest Rolex watches.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6538A has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6538A
CIRCA: 1955
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1030

rolexsubmariner6538a
rolexsubmariner6538a

 

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6536 JAMES BOND

Rolex Submariner 6536 was introduced to the global market between 1955-1959. Also Know as The James Bond Watch, the Rolex Submariner 6536 with the 1030 Caliber is a watch that will be always one of my favorite watches. Caring a lot of history not only cause James Bond is my favorite movie but also with its unique “Small Crown” of 6mm that differs from the “Big Crown” of 8mm .

ROLEX SUBMARINER 6536 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 6536
CIRCA: 1955-1959
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1030

rolexsubmariner6536/1
rolexsubmariner6536/1

 

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5508

The Rolex Submariner 5508 was produced between 1957-1961, with also its Small Crown of 6mm and its Caliber 1530.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5508 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 5508
CIRCA: 1957-1961
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1530, 26 jewels

rolexsubmariner5508

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5510

Rolex Submariner was produced just for one year in 1958 with a 1530 Caliber and two variation in the crown a Small Crown of 6mm and a Big Crown of 8mm.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5510 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 5510
CIRCA: 1958
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 37mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          CROWN: Small & Big
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1530, 26 jewels

rolexsubmariner5510
rolexsubmariner5510

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5512 Chronometer

The Rolex Submariner 5512 is one of the most collective watches for all the watch enthusiast as it is the only watch that in the almost two decades of its life between 1959-1978 changed so much. The first characteristic is its Caliber, during this two decades the Caliber changed from 1530 to 1560 and lastly to 1570.

What about its dial?

The second characteristic is its dial that until 1966 it was spotted with only black glossy dial that changed to a matte version. Have in mind that if you bump into a glossy dial you need to buy it as quickly as possible as they are considered quick rare and its price multiple in auctions.

Size matters

Another interesting element is that its size changed for the first time from 38mm to 40mm.

But why Chronometer?

The Calliber 1530 was the Calliber needed from the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) in order to obtail the certification of  “chronometer” title that was certifying the high level of precision and uniqueness of timekeeping instruments and that guarantee the extreme quality, as well as the know-how applied throughout the production process. Therefore two lines were added so as to describe the “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified”

Crown Guards

The last change that we can spot in Rolex Submariner 5512 that had a significant impact in the appearance of Submariners was the “shoulders” that were first introduced and its role was to protect the big crown and the mechanism of the Rolex and became a trademark of the Submariners

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5512 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 5512
CIRCA: 1959-1978
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 40mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          CROWN: Small & Big
DIAL: Black (Glossy & Matte)
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1530- 1560-1570

rolexsubmariner5512
rolexsubmariner5512

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5513 First Crown

Rolex Submariner was first introduced in 1962 and was discontinued in 1989.  Is is known as the First Crown Guard as it was the first one that Crown were added and was spotted with Calliber 1520 and 1530.

Its usefull to know that up until 1980 the customers could chose between a certified by Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) and a non  certified Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) Submariner.

What about the dials?

This is really interesting as in this specific model we can spot all the basic variations of dials provided by Rolex. Between 1962-1966 the Submariner was introduced with a Gilt dial followed between 1966-1984 from a Matte dial and then between 1984-1990 with a gloss dial, following the opposite path of 5512 that were first introduced with a glossy dial later changer to a matte.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5513 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 5513
CIRCA: 1962-1989
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 40mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          CROWN: First Crown
DIAL: Black (Gilt& Matte &Glossy )
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1530- 1520

rolexsubmariner5513
rolexsubmariner5513

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5514 Comex

My favorite Submariner, maybe because this was the first Rolex that was introduced to me and I fell in love with watches and their history. You can spot it between 1969-1977 named Rolex Submariner Comex with a 1520 Caliber.

But why Comex?

Rolex worked closed with Compagnie Maritime d’ Expertises known as COMEX in order to design and manufacture a special watch addressed to the special needs of COMEX divers. As divers go to extreme depth there was a special need to develop a special watch that would release the pressure, this was the beginning of the unique COMEX. You can spot them immediately as you can see COMEX logo on the dial. With a limited production of 800-1000 watches it is considered a limited must have watch!

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5514 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 5514
CIRCA: 1969-1977
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                        DIAMETER: 40mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          
DIAL: Black & COMO logo
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1520

rolex submariner comex 5514
Rolex Submariner Comex 5514

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 1680/8 First Date

The Rolex Submariner 1680 Cal 1570 was produced between 1969-1978 and is the one that has many firsts , it is the first Sub that feature a date therefore its also called the First Date, the first one that was produced in yellow gold and the first one that has a cyclops lens in the plexi glass. Lastly but not least the matt black dial in the one featured above has also yellow gold markers the dial also known as the “nipple dial”.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 1680/8 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 1680/8
CIRCA: 1969-1978
CASE MATERIAL: Yellow Gold                                                                                                                                            DIAMETER: 39mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          
DIAL: Black – Nipple Dial
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time – Date
CALIBER: 1570 automatic, 26 jewels

rolexsub1680/8
rolexsub1680/8

ROLEX SUBMARINER 1680

Rolex Submariner launched in 1969 and discontinued in 1979 is described as the First Submariner with Date and Caliber 1575. A beautiful 40mm stainless steel Submariner.

Red Submariner

This amazing Submariner as seen on the photo below can be easily been unidentified as an early piece due to its red writing of the Submariner in the dial also called among Rolex lovers the ” Red Submariner”.

ROLEX SUBMARINER 1680 has the following characteristics:

REFERENCE: 1680
CIRCA: 1969-1979
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel                                                                                                                                           DIAMETER: 40mm
BRACELET / STRAP MATERIAL: Oyster Bracelet                                                                                          
DIAL: Black
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time Only
CALIBER: 1575 automatic, 26 jewels

Rolex Red Submariner
Rolex Red Submariner

 

ROLEX SUBMARINER 5513/5517

19705513/5517Submariner

DATES REFERENCE MODEL
1953-1954 6204 First Submariner A.260
1954-1955 6205 First Submariner A.260
1954 6200 Mercedes Hands – A.296
1955 – 1959 6538 First Submariner with Big Crown “James Bond” worn by Sean Connery in Dr. No
1955 – 1959 6538A Military Submariner 1030 “Coroncione”
1955 – 1959 6536 Small Crown 1030
1955 – 1959 6536/1 Chronometer 1030
1957 – 1961 5508 Small Crown 1530
1958 5510 Small Crown 1530
1958 5510 Big Crown 1530
1959 – 1978 5512 Chronometer- The Cornini 1530-1560-1570
1962 – 1989 5513 First Crown Guard 1520-1530
1969 – 1977 5514 Comex Submariner 1520
1969 – 1978 1680/8 First DATE in Yellow Gold 1570
1969 – 1979 1680 First Submariner Date 1575
1970 5513/5517 Submariner
1977 5517 Military Submariner 1520
1979 – 1987 16808 Submariner Date Sapphire crystal Gold 3035
1979 – 1988 16800 Submariner Date Transitional model 3035
1983 – 1988 16803 Submariner Date Sapphire crystal SS/YG 3035
1986-1987 168000
1986** – Today 16610 Submariner Date Superluminova Dial 3135
1986** – Today 16613 Submariner Date Superlum. Dial SS/YG 3135
1986** – Today 16618 Submariner Date Superlum. Dial Gold 3135
1988*- 2001 14060 First with Sapphire crystal 3000
2001 – Today 14060M Updated Automatic Movement 3130
14060M Submariner
16610LV 50th Anniversary
2012-2019 114060 Submariner Ceramic bezel
2012-2019 116610LN Submariner Date with Ceramic bezel
2020 – present 124060 Submariner Caliber 3230

2020 – present

126610LN

Submariner Date Caliber 3235