What Is Special About Rolex’s Diving Watch

Rolex's first diving watch, the Submariner, was the first wristwatch for divers that was waterproof 100 meters (330 feet) when it was launched in 1953. The Submariner was the first watch to achieve a 100-meter depth rating. Rolex's efforts to improve waterproofness continued, and the Submariner's depth rating increased to 200 meters (660 feet) in 1954 and 300 meters (1,000 feet) in 1989. 

The Submariner has a simple yet striking design, with a clear, luminescent display that's easy to read underwater. It also features a bezel that's crucial for tracking dive duration. If you’re not a diver, let me put that in terms that might help you understand the critical nature of things. The Submariner helps you track how much oxygen you’ve used while you’re four hundred feet below the surface of the ocean.

The Submariner was built on Rolex's famous waterproof Oyster case, which had already made a name for itself. The Submariner's "Bubble Back" case accommodates the self-winding movement, and its "small crown" is screw-down. The Submariner's design and functions were dictated by the practical needs of divers. The Submariner's technical features and design aspects were considered when the international standard for diving watches was established in 1981. They set the standard and those words aren’t just a marketing ploy.

There are other diving watches and there are some good arguments people can make to say their favorite brand is the best diving watch. There are Omega fans and Panerai fans. There are those who swear by a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf. The truth is that diving watches have really advanced, and it’s fair to say there are good arguments in favor of many watches when it comes to deciding on the best watch.

But only one set the standard.

Only one formed the foundation on which the others have built.

If you’re looking for a pre-owned Rolex in San Diego, I’d love to help. Give me a call or drop by the La Jolla showroom. You’ll be glad you did.

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An Interesting History of Rolex’s Aquatic Watches