It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call this automatic, stainless steel Submariner the most recognizable watch in the Rolex stable. Since its inception in 1953, it has been worn and loved by deep sea divers, members of the military, movie stars and more. This model showcases a significant design change in the line: an applied circular edge with hour indices. It’s powered by a Rolex, Swiss-made, 27-jewel automatic caliber 3135 movement, which could remain in use for nearly twelve years. There are minor signs of wear on the case, which has been polished; the bezel insert, pip, and bracelet are all original to the watch, though some of the original links are missing.
The dial is marked “Swiss > T 25,” which means it has applied luminous material. The original material of choice was radium; in 1963, it was replaced with the less-radioactive tritium. Then, in the 90s, Rolex replaced tritium with a harmless photoluminescent compound — and two years later, they switched to an improved version, “Super Luminova,” presented here (and denoted by the “Swiss Made” marker on the dial). It was made in 2000, which makes it one of the first Super Luminova dials — all told, it’s a superb watch for someone looking for a contemporary Submariner.
Because this watch is a vintage, one-of-a-kind piece, all purchases are final sale and excluded from any promotions.