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ROLEX SUBMARINER
ROLEX

THE 32 AMAZING ROLEX SUBMARINER MODELS

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
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ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX

ROLEX AIR-KING Reference Numbers

ROLEX AIR-KING History

The Rolex Air-King was introduced in 1945, alongside the Datejust in order to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Rolex with 4635.  This new model paid tribute to the British Royal Air Force that loved Rolex watches , and as it was introduced during World War II  it was named Air King. In its early days it was not popular up until the introduction of 5500 in 1957 that can perceived actually as the starting point of Rolex Air King history.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4635

Made in the 1940s. The first Rolex Air-King, Circa: 1940s Ref: 4635, Dial: Bâton Indexes with Arabic Numerals , Caliber: Cal.10 1/2 , Case: Rhodium-Plated, Dimensions: 33 MM

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 4635

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 4925

Is the first Rolex Air King that feature the Air-King Moniker on the dial. Reference: 4925, Circa: 1956, Dimensions:  33MM

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 4925

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5502

Reference: 5502, Circa: 1959, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber: Cal. 1530 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5502

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5700

Reference: 5700 Circa: c. 195Os Movement: Cal. 1530 25-jewel automatic, Size: 36mm Dial: Blue, linen, or silver dial.

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5700

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5501

Reference: 5501, Produced: 1958, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  1520

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5501

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5504

Reference: 5504, Produced: 1958, Dimensions:  36MM Caliber:  1530

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5504

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5506

Reference: 5506, Produced: 1961 , Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  1530 Automatic movement Case: Yellow gold plated, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5506

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5500

Reference: 5500, Circa:  1969 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber: Cal. 1530 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5500

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5520

Reference: 5520, Circa:  1970 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber: Cal. 1520 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 5520

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6500

Reference: 6500, Circa:  1975 Material:Steel/ Gold, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber: Cal. 1520 Automatic Movement, Acrylic Crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 6500

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000

In 1989 Rolex introduced the 14000 that was discontinued 10 year laters in 1999. The original idea was to replace the 5500 with a new model that would offer a sapphire crystal, a smooth bezel and the 3000 movement to its fans.

Reference: 14000, Produced: 1989 – 1999, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3000

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14000M

Reference: 14000M, Produced: 2000, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3130, Automatic movement, Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 14010M

Reference: 14010M, Produced: 2006, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3130 Automatic movement

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 14010M

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114234

Reference: 114234, Produced: 2006, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3130 Automatic movement. Is considered the last model of the first generation of Air King 34MM it discontinued in 2014 after 7 years only. In 2016, Rolex re -introduced  Rolex Air- King with the 40mm Ref 116900.

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 114234

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114210

Reference: 114210, Produced: 2006-2010, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3130 Automatic movement. 

ROLEX AIR-KING
ROLEX AIR-KING 114210

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 114200

Reference: 114200, Produced: , Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  3130 Automatic movement. 

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 6552

Reference: 6552, Produced: 1953, Dimensions:  34MM Caliber:  1030 Automatic movement. 

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1002

The 1002 is often quoted as an Air-King model, but it never was – it was only an Oyster perpetual.

 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 1401

Stainless Steel. Water Resistant to 100 meters. 

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 5701

A less-common model than most Air-King references.

ROLEX AIR-KING ref 116900

The newest and current Air-King model. Released in 2016. 39mm case.

 

Want to learn more about Rolex 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.

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ROLEX REFERENCE NUMBER
ROLEX

ROLEX MODELS AND REFERENCE NUMBERS in 5 Seconds

Where can you find your Rolex Model Reference Number?

Rolex has hide its code number not in the back of the case as many companies have done but in a hidden place between the lungs! So in able to spot your Rolex reference number you need to unleash the bracelet and the code will be revealed.

ROLEX MODELS AND REFERENCE
ROLEX MODELS AND REFERENCE

Rolex Models and Reference Number

In the list below you can find your Model Type according to the Reference Number.

140 Oyster Perpetual Air-King and Submariner

142 Oyster Perpetual Chronometer 34mm and Explorer

152 Oyster Perpetual Date – Mens 34 mm

162 Oyster Perpetual Datejust Men’s 36mm

165 Explorer II

166 Submariner, SeaDweller, Yachtmaster 40mm

167 GMT Master II

170 Oyster Quartz Datejust

189 Oyster Perpetual Special Edition

190 Oyster Quartz Day-Date

1165 Cosmograph Daytona

1182 Oyster Perpetual Day-Date

1183 Oyster Perpetual Day-Date Serti (With Diamonds)

Want to learn more about Rolex Code Reference Numbers? Please check the following articles!

ROLEX BEZEL CODE NUMBER! QUICK QUIDE IS 2 SECONDS

ROLEX BRACELET CODE HOW CAN YOU IDENTIFY THEM IN 1 STEP

ROLEX MODEL TYPES

 

 

 

 

 

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ROLEX Bark Bezel
ROLEX

ROLEX SARU! The luxury Rolex

ROLEX SARU

Rolex Saru is one of the most impressive collection of Rolex, really luxury and hard to find. But what is Rolex SARU and where its name comes from? It is a combination of two amazing gems SApphire and RUby.

The Rolex GMT SARU is one of the most hard to find Rolex models of all time. Presented in the mid-1980s, , gold GMT hand, President bracelet with diamond-set middle links.  Very few were produced and they are quite well hidden among collectors as few has surface the market. 

 

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 116758

Presented in 2006,  this amazing top luxury, unique watch that I had the privilege to have it in my hands,  its unique yellow gold case combined with a top sapphire and ruby bezel and a diamond-set case, available both with a black or champagne diamond pave dial. A watch that no words can described it, with a Cal 3186 in 40mm.

ROLEX GMT IISARU 116578
ROLEX GMT IISARU 116578

 

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 116759

Presented in 2007, this amazing Rolex with its white gold case, diamond-set case, sapphire and ruby, SARU bezel was  available both with a black or pave diamond dial. It comes with an amazing Oyster bracelt and a Calibre 3186 automatic.

ROLEX GMT II SARU 116579

ROLEX SARU GMT-Master II 126755

Presented in early 2020, rose gold case, diamond-set case, SARU bezel – available both with a black or pave diamond dial, with a 3186 Calibre and an Oyster Bracelet

ROLEX GMT II SARU 126755
ROLEX GMT II SARU 126755

Want to learn more about Rolex 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.

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ROLEX SUBMARINER MODELS
ROLEX

ROLEX SUBMARINER Models

ROLEX SUBMARINER Models brief history

Rolex designed its very first first Submariner for the British Royal Navy. Presented in 1953, the Submariner was the first divers’ watch waterproof to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet) that gave them the ability with its rotatable bezel to read their immersion time. The Submariner has been ever since one of the most popular and cool sports watch not only among divers but for every watch addict who loves luxury sport watches.

ROLEX SUBMARINER
ROLEX SUBMARINER

ROLEX SUBMARINER REF 6538

The first Submariner was introduced in 1957 along with the GMT Master II. The modern-day version of the Submariner was based on the GMT Master II. The GMT Master was  a supercase that was originally used in military watches and carried the same case. It’s new case was about a mm larger than the originals. The new in-house calibers used in the watches were 3230 and 3235 respectively. The new calibers provide improved accuracy and power reserve. The first version of the Submariner, the 6538, was even used by James Bond in various movies. The Mercedes hand is a popular addition in the film.

ROLEX SUBMARINER REF 6200

The second version of the Submariner was launched in 1964. This was the first model with a date window. The Ref. 6200 introduced a number of improvements to the Submariner, some of which were carried forward to later models. The dial was more popular, with a date window and a cushion-shaped Oyster case. The watch’s design was influenced by the Rolex Explorer. 

Materials…

Rolex Submariner has undergone incredible changes over the years, introducing 16 years later since it was presented the gold version (1969). It is interesting to mention that although Rolex prototyped the white gold version of 1680 it never released it for production. And the most important watch was 1680 that introduced to the Submariner series yellow  gold. 

ROLEX SUBMARINER Milestones over the years

6204  First Submariner A.260  (1953 – 1954)

6205  First Submariner A.260  (1954 – 1955)

6200  Mercedes Hands – A.296 (1954)

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 (1955 – 1959)

5508  Small Crown  1530 (1957 – 1961)

5510  Small Crown  1530 (1958)

5510 (1958 only – Big Crown)

5512  Chronometer- The Cornini  1530-1560-1570 (1959 – 1978)

5513  First Crown Guard  1520-1530 (1962 – 1989)

5514  Comex Submariner  1520 (1969 – 1977)

1680/8  First DATE in Yellow Gold  1575 (1969 – 1978)

1680  First Submariner Date  1575 (1969 – 1979)

5517  Military Submariner  1520 (1977)

16808 Submariner Date  Sapphire crystal Gold  3035 (1979 – 1987)

16800 Submariner Date  Transitional model  3035 (1979 – 1988)

16803 Submariner Date  Sapphire crystal SS/YG 3035 (1983 – 1988)

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 (1986** – Today)

14060 First with Sapphire crystal  3000 (1988*- 2001)

14060M  Updated Automatic Movement  3130 (2001 – Today)

14060M  Submariner 

16610LV 50th Anniversary

114060 Submariner Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

116610LN Submariner Date with Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

124060 Submariner (2020 – present) equipped with caliber 3230

126610LN Submariner Date (2020 – present) equipped with 3235

Want to learn more? Read our next article regarding the full history of Submariner

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ROLEX SUBMARINER
ROLEX

ROLEX SUBMARINER AWESOME HISTORY IN 5 MINUTES

Rolex Submariner the Beginning 

In the beginning of 1950s scuba diving became a rising sport among young Americans therefore the need of a watch that would be waterproof and precise in order for the divers to have an accurate way of the time they spend underwater was created. In 1953 Rolex created the Rolex Submariner, a watch exclusively designed for the specific needs of scuba diving waterproof to a depth of 100m that has been evolve over the years up to 300 metres. Its unique characteristics such as its rotatable bezel and large hands has made it a unique watch among scuba divers.  

 

Rolex Submariner 6204 & 6205

Introduced officially a year later in 1954 the Submariner 6204, with an A260 movement and certified as waterproof up to 200 meters. The Submariner 6205, with a A260 movement and the Submariner 6200 fitted with A296 movement and a larger crown marked Brevet (patented) waterproof also up to 200 meters. In the following years quite a few collectors have questioned the chronological order of the first three models of Submariner but as a logic consequence we can safely say that as Submariner 6204 and 6205 share the same movement they were produced together and Submariner 6200 follows with a different and better movement A296. 

Rolex Submariner History
Rolex Submariner History

Auguste Piccard the incredible mind behind Rolex Submariner evolution

Are you up for it? It is always fascinating when two minds that don’t think alike join their forces and their creative minds. This happened when August Piccard and Rolex connected, but lets dive a little bit to the life of this incredible mind. August Piccard was a Swiss physicist and explorer that came into publicity due to his record breaking hydrogen balloon flights that allowed him to study Earths upper atmosphere and became the first person to enter the Stratosphere.  Piccard after this incredible journey on space, in 1948 he invented the first bathyscaphe that allowed the divers to explore the ocean in depths that they have never imagined before. 

In 1953 two very different Submariners were produced for the Swiss scientist Professor Auguste Piccard for his dives in Trieste named Deep Sea Specials and Piccard. On the 30th September 1953 with Deep Sea Specials, Rolex made a world record dive to 3155 with Auguste Piccard team. Seven years later in 1960 under Jaques Piccard’s son August  Piccard 7205/0 conquered a new world record to 11000 meters. 

1954 what an interesting year for Rolex Submariner!

1954 was a fascinating year for Submariner and Rolex fanatics as it is the year that Rolex is experimenting with the name of Submariner and launching Frogman, Skin Diver, Dive-O-Graph and Deep Sea Diver and does not conclude until the ten years later in the 1960s.

Rolex Submariner 1030 Movement

In 1955 Submariner re-released 6204 and 6205 with the new 1030 movement. 6204 was renamed as 6538 and 6536 replaced 6205 adding to them a larger crown. Rolex re offered 6536 with a chronometer version named 6536/1.

Rolex Submariner Reference Guide

This is your quick reference guide that includes the reference and the years of production, if you require more information regarding all the Submariners models please check our article “THE 32 AMAZING ROLEX SUBMARINER MODELS”

Rolex Submariner References (1953-Present)

6204  First Submariner A.260  (1953 – 1954)

6205  First Submariner A.260  (1954 – 1955)

6200  Mercedes Hands – A.296 (1954)

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 (1955 – 1959)

5508  Small Crown  1530 (1957 – 1961)

5510  Small Crown  1530 (1958)

5510 (1958 only – Big Crown)

5512  Chronometer- The Cornini  1530-1560-1570 (1959 – 1978)

5513  First Crown Guard  1520-1530 (1962 – 1989)

5514  Comex Submariner  1520 (1969 – 1977)

1680/8  First DATE in Yellow Gold  1575 (1969 – 1978)

1680  First Submariner Date  1575 (1969 – 1979)

5517  Military Submariner  1520 (1977)

16808 Submariner Date  Sapphire crystal Gold  3035 (1979 – 1987)

16800 Submariner Date  Transitional model  3035 (1979 – 1988)

16803 Submariner Date  Sapphire crystal SS/YG 3035 (1983 – 1988)

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 (1986** – Today)

14060 First with Sapphire crystal  3000 (1988*- 2001)

14060M  Updated Automatic Movement  3130 (2001 – Today)

14060M  Submariner 

16610LV 50th Anniversary

114060 Submariner Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

116610LN Submariner Date with Ceramic bezel (2012-2019)

124060 Submariner (2020 – present) equipped with caliber 3230

126610LN Submariner Date (2020 – present) equipped with 3235

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

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ROLEX TURN O GRAPH
ROLEX

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH Ref 6202! The model that will blow your mind!

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH History

ROLEX introduced for the first time in the public Rolex Turn-O-Graph in 1953 under the Reference 6202, the characteristic of Turn-O-Graph that made the watch stand out was the rotating bezel that measured elapsed time and the pencil shaped hands.

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph ability to accurately record elapsed time made it quite popular among watch lovers and therefore was chosen by the Thunderbirds—the United States’ elite aerobatic squadron in order to help their pilots to calculate the time. For many Turn-O-Graph is considered the opening watch to the main category for Rolex of sports watches followed by GMT and Submariner.

 

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH
ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH

ROLEX TURN O GRAPH Movement

It used a A296 movement later replaced by A260 and had a depth rated at 50 meters. As it covered the same needs as GMT of world traveler in the next few years was totally replaced by Rolex GMT therefore its production years were limited to a decade until the early 1960s. In this decade of production the watches were accompanied by two movements A296 from the beginning till the mid of 1950 and A260 from that point till the end of production. 

ROLEX TURN O GRAPH Reference 6202

In 1953 Rolex introduced  Turn-O-Graph under the reference 6202. This marked a revolutionary step for Rolex, as the Turn-O-Graph was not only a timekeeping instrument but also featured a rotating bezel, setting it apart from traditional chronographs.

The reference 6202 Turn-O-Graph showcased Rolex’s commitment to innovation, combining the precision of a chronograph with the functionality of a rotating bezel. This feature, initially designed for timing intervals, laid the groundwork for future Rolex sports watches, particularly the iconic Submariner.

ROLEX TURN-O-GRAPH Design

The Rolex Turn-O-Graph’s distinctive design and functionality quickly gained popularity, earning it the nickname “Thunderbird” when it became the official watch of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerobatic team in the 1950s. This association added a touch of glamour and adventure to the timepiece, solidifying its place in both aviation and horological history.

As Rolex continued to refine its chronograph offerings, the Turn-O-Graph set the stage for the brand’s enduring legacy of creating timepieces that seamlessly blend form and function. The success of the Turn-O-Graph paved the way for subsequent Rolex sports watches, becoming a cornerstone of the brand’s identity.

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ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA
ROLEX

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA 2012

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA History

The Rolex Daytona Cosmograph, originally designed to measure the average speed of cars and took its name Daytona after the famous racing beach in Miami. When referring to Cosmograph its origin come from the greek Kόσμος “cosmos”, that is translated as the world.  For the Greeks Cosmograph is the science that maps the general feature of the Κόσμος (world) and the universe. Literary Cosmos in greek κόσμος — the world & graph in greek γραφή that means write, so in greek Cosmograph comes from the connection of this two world.  

 

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH  RAINBOW

In 2012 Rolex introduced the famous COSMOGRAPH ‘RAINBOW’ DAYTONA in yellow and white gold under the REF 116598RBOW. Its amazing and luxurious aesthetics with its multi color sapphires around the bezel accompanied with the diamond set at the lugs and the crown guards set high standards in the watch industry. It is important to mention that each stone is carefully hand picked in order to secure the high quality that Rolex represents. In. 2018 Rolex is adding the Everose gold edition under the reference 116595 RBOW.

COSMOGRAPH 'RAINBOW' DAYTONA, REFERENCE 116598RBOW
COSMOGRAPH ‘RAINBOW’ DAYTONA, REFERENCE 116598RBOW

 

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA RAINBOW

Everose Gold Ref. 116595 RBOW

In 2018 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rainbow” Everose Gold was added to Rolex Collection. The watch was loved by many celebrities.

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA 116595
ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA 116595

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA RAINBOW Ref. 116599RBOW

Introduced in 2013 another yet amazing Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Rainbow that combines in the most awesome way the sporty and luxurious aesthetic.  Difficult not to be spotted among the crowd this unique limited edition Rainbow takes your style in a totally new level.

ROLEX | COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA RAINBOW, REFERENCE 116599 RBOW
ROLEX | COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA RAINBOW, REFERENCE 116599 RBOW

ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA RAINBOW Ref. 116598RBOW

ROLEX DAYTONA RAINBOW 116598RBOW
ROLEX DAYTONA RAINBOW
116598RBOW

Want to learn more about Rolex 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.

 

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ROLEX FOUNDER
WATCH ICONS

HANS WILSDORF The amazing Rolex Founder

HANS WILSDORF: The Creative Mind of Rolex

Hans Wilsdorf is considered as one of the legends in watch history, he is the visionary founder of Rolex. As we begin the journey back in time, let’s unravel the remarkable story of a young gentleman  whose creativity and persistence in excellence changed for ever the world of watchmaking.

ROLEX Hans Wilsdorf
ROLEX Hans Wilsdorf

Early Life of HANS WILSDORF

Hans Wilsdorf’s amazing journey in this world began on the 22nd of March in 1881 in the streets of Kulmbach, Germany. A young man that kept a creative eye in the traditional world of watch manufacturing and transform it to a world of luxury, adventure and precision. In the early stage of his journey everyone could understand that this young men came to stay and his spirit could change for ever their world. 

But Why ROLEX?

This tricky question was answered by HANS WILSDORF and we quote:

 “I tried combining the letters of the alphabet in every possible way. This gave me some hundred names, but none of them felt quite right. One morning, while riding on the upper deck of a horse-drawn omnibus along Cheapside in the City of London, a genie whispered ‘Rolex’ in my ear.”

The Birth of ROLEX

In 1905, the idea of Rolex was conceived and this was the beginning of this long journey that holds now over a century. Hans Wilsdorf passion for innovation led to the development of the first waterproof and dust proof watch, a groundbreaking achievement that solidified Rolex’s reputation for unparalleled craftsmanship.

HANS WILSDORF Precision  

Wilsdorf’s commitment to precision gave the ability to Rolex to stand out quickly. An important milestone was the introduction of the Oyster Perpetual in 1931, featuring a self-winding mechanism, that changed the watch history forever. This innovation not only enhanced accuracy but also was the birth of the automatic watches.

HANS WILSDORF Excellence

Under Wilsdorf’s guidance, Rolex became a status symbol that reflected the excellence in each field it was involved. Each Rolex timepiece was a statement and a sign of his commitment to quality, setting the brand among the top of the watch industry. In 1910, Rolex was the first watch manufacturing company that received the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision,  by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Vienne.

Legacy of Mr Rolex

Hans Wilsdorf’s legacy lives on in every Rolex watch till now. His creativity and perfectionism left an indelible mark on the world of horology and change it for ever. Without HANS WILSDORF the watch industry would not be the same. 

Want to learn more about Rolex 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. 

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ROLEX

ROLEX Bond SUBMARINER 6538 – A coveted masterpiece

WHAT’S YOUR WATCH, MR. BOND?

The Rolex “Bond Submariner” watch 6538 is the original Submariner to be featured in James Bond/007 films. Both Connery and Roger Moore sported a number of different Sub references during their respective tenures, but it’s the first model 007 wore as he set about ruining Dr. No’s plans for world domination that will be forever be known as the Bond Submariner, a vintage Rolex Submariner that is incredibly hard to find.

The Iconic Rolex Submariner 6538: A Legacy of Bond Films and Collector Prestige

The 6538 gained a lot of attention among Rolex fanatics. With its unique black, rotating bezel, an amazing added feature since the watch’s inception, it was influenced by Rolex’s own Turn-O-Graph ref. 6202. The ref. 6538 was produced with a massive variation of different dials with tiny changes concerning the color or the amount of text, assuming that these changes that we can notice were randomly produced.

Among the most immediately noticeable differences between certain types of watches is whether they have what is known as 2-line or 4-line dials.

Produced between 1954 and 1959, the 38 mm tonneau thinner-shaped Oyster case features more beveled lugs, a screw back, and a large screw-down crown. It is waterproof under water pressure up to an impressive 300 meters or 1000 feet. The Rolex Submariner 6538, with its caliber 1030 nickel-finished lever and 25-jewel movement, became the first of the brand’s calibers to gain official chronometer status, winning certification after challenging testing from the COSC. While all Submariner 6538 watches are highly popular among watch collectors, one is getting more attention than the others and is highly collectable and hard to get due to its limited production and 4-line dial.

 

Want to learn more about Rolex 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. 

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