Oyster Perpetual Submariner Launched in 1953, the Submarinerwas the first divers’ wristwatchwaterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet). Thiswas Rolex’s second great breakthrough in the technical masteryofwaterproofness, following the invention of theOyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch, in 1926. In watchmaking, the Submariner represented a historic turning point; it set the standard for divers’ watches. The SubmarinerDate,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. Since 1953, the model has evolved technically and has been endowed with features to improve overall functionality. The first version was a pioneering achievement, and subsequent ones have continued to set the benchmark for divers’ watches. Featuring a 41mmOyster case, distinctive dial with large luminescent hourmarkers and hands, unidirectional rotatable bezel and Oyster bracelet, the Submariner and Submariner Date are symbols of reliability and among themost recognizablewatches ever designed. Contributing to the strong visual identity, a graduatedCerachrombezel insert is key to their functionality. Its 60-minute graduation allows a diver tomonitor diving time accurately. Manufactured by Rolex from a hard, corrosion-resistant ceramic, the Cerachrom insert is virtually scratchproof and its colour unaffected by ultraviolet rays, seawater or water that is chlorinated. The bezel’s knurled edge offers excellent grip to set the dive time and can bemanipulatedwith ease, evenwhen wearing gloves. It rotates notch by notch, accompanied by distinctive clicks. The dial’s luminescent Chromalight display is an innovation that improves visibility in dark environments, an essential feature for divers. The hour and minute hands, clearly differentiated in size and shape, and the hour markers in simple geometric forms – triangle, circle and rectangle – enable instant and reliable reading to avoid confusion underwater. Reliability, robustness and functionality The Submariner and Submariner Date’s Oyster case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet), provides the movement with optimal protection from water, dust, pressure and shocks. The Triplock winding crown – fitted with a triple waterproofness system and protected by an integral crown guard – screws down securely against the case, providing increased water resistance. A paragon of reliability, the Oyster bracelet marries engineering and aesthetics, and is designed to be both robust and comfortable. It is equippedwith anOysterlock safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening, and a Rolex Glidelock extension system, allowing fine adjustment of the bracelet length without using any tools so that it can be worn comfortably over a diving suit.
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