The Rolex Submariner

The history of horology is intimately tied with the sea and Rolex has always shared this association. In 1910 a Rolex was the first wristwatch officially certified as a chronometer and in 1927 Mercedes Gleitze swam the Channel wearing a Rolex. The Rolex Submariner continued this association, becoming one of the world's best known watches for divers and other "underwater professionals".

History

Development of the Submariner - initially codenamed "Frogman" - began in 1952. It was no easy task - the watch had to be able to function accurately at great depths whilst also being readable in the murky waters. In addition a design aim was to allow the diver to easily see how much time had been spent underwater.

The prototype Submariner appeared in 1952 and was tested by French underwater photographer Dimitri Rebikoff. Following successful trials and minor modifications the watch went on sale in 1953.

The initial Submariners were guaranteed to a depth of 100 metres. In 1954 this was increased to 200 metres.

During this early period many minor variations of the basic Submariner design were to be found. These variations cause much interest - and confusion! - amongst collectors.

In 1969 date function model added to range of Submariners available to buy. In 1979 further advances allowed the depth guarantee to be increased to 300 metres. In 2003 a special 50th anniversary Submariner was released with a green bezel.

James Bond

The Rolex Submariner is one of the few watches to be widely known by the general public outside of horological enthusiasts. The main reason for this is its appearance on the wrist of James Bond, secret agent 007.

The Submariner first appeared on Bond's wrist in Sean Connery's debut appearance as the secret agent in the movie "Dr. No". The Submariner then appeared in numerous Bond films until 1996 when Pierce Brosnan's Bond switched allegience to arch-rivals Omega.

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The Rolex Submariner The history of horology is intimately tied with the sea and Rolex has always shared this association. In 1910 a Rolex was the first wristwatch officially certified as a chronometer and in 1927 Mercedes Gleitze swam the Channel wearing a Rolex. The Rolex Submariner continued this association, becoming one of the world's best known watches for divers and other "underwater professionals". History Development of the Submariner - initially codenamed "Frogman" - began in 1952. It was no easy task - the watch had to be able to function accurately at great depths whilst also being readable in the murky waters. In addition a design aim was to allow the diver to easily see how much time had been spent underwater. The prototype Submariner appeared in 1952 and was tested by French underwater photographer Dimitri Rebikoff. Following successful trials and minor modifications the watch went on sale in 1953. The initial Submariners were guaranteed to a depth of 100 metres. In 1954 this was increased to 200 metres. During this early period many minor variations of the basic Submariner design were to be found. These variations cause much interest - and confusion! - amongst collectors. In 1969 date function model added to range of Submariners available to buy. In 1979 further advances allowed the depth guarantee to be increased to 300 metres. In 2003 a special 50th anniversary Submariner was released with a green bezel. James Bond The Rolex Submariner is one of the few watches to be widely known by the general public outside of horological enthusiasts. The main reason for this is its appearance on the wrist of James Bond, secret agent 007. The Submariner first appeared on Bond's wrist in Sean Connery's debut appearance as the secret agent in the movie "Dr. No". The Submariner then appeared in numerous Bond films until 1996 when Pierce Brosnan's Bond switched allegience to arch-rivals Omega. This site is not associated with or endorsed by Rolex Contact an authorised dealer for prices and availability All trademarks are the property of their respective owners Clocks-Watches-Time / Watches / Makes I-Z / Rolex / Submariner / All original material copyright © Trevor Mendham 2005-2008. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners Please read the site terms of use		Clocks Watches Celebrity Famous Makes A-H Makes I-Z Invicta JLC Longines Luminox Mondaine Oris Panerai Patek Philippe Poljot Rado Rolex Daytona Oyster Perpetual Submariner Yachtmaster Seiko Skagen Tag Heuer Tissot Vacheron C. Mechanics Types Store Time Time & Motion More...