As one of the world’s most recognisable watches, the Rolex Submariner has made a permanent mark in the brand’s history. Worn by the equally as legendary James Bond character, these durable watches quickly became a favourite amongst movie fans and Rolex lovers alike.
When it comes to vintage Rolex watches, you really can’t get much better than the Submariner. While it may be an older watch in terms of creation, the design is timeless and has remained undeniably iconic. Why has this specific watch been so successful in standing the test of time, and what is the history behind the famous Rolex Submariner?
This particular design made its James Bond debut in 1962, adorning the famous British spy’s wrist in Dr. No. The watch itself, however, was introduced in 1953 – almost ten years before starring in the first film. It may have been dubbed ‘the Bond Submariner’, but this timepiece has a rich history outside of the 007 flicks.
Described by Rolex as the ‘watch that unlocked the deep’, this style was the very first of its kind. At the time, it was the only divers’ wristwatch that remained waterproof to a depth of 360 metres, making it ideal for those working in the aquatic industry. Not only was it extremely functional, but it was also incredibly inexpensive at the time.
A Submariner initially cost $150 – the equivalent of two weeks pay for the average person at the time. A Rolex may be a luxurious accessory now, but it hasn’t always been that way. In fact, it was said to be pretty common for workers to exchange their watches for a single beer after a long work trip away.
It may have been affordable, stylish and practical, but this didn’t stop it falling out of favour with the primary market. With the development of new technology came the Quartz watch, which was thought to be much more accurate than the mechanical types previously preferred. For a while, the attention was turned from the Submariner to other types of watch, but this didn’t last for long.
While the watch was formerly targeted at the likes of fishermen and divers, nobody could resist the charm of the Submariner. According to Wrist Review, having a Rolex became a sign of wealth and success in the 80s rather than being a necessary tool. This caused the prices of Rolexes to rise, and it was no longer the affordable brand it once was but rather a luxury label. Because of this, the Submariner was popular with prosperous business people and those looking to flash their cash.
The many unique features, as well as its sleek clock face and luxurious reputation, made it the perfect choice for Mr. Bond. The charming character has worn many watches in the films, but none are more famous than the Submariner. Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond books, was said to favour Rolex watches himself, making the choice a nod in his direction. James Bond was seen to wear the Submariner on many occasions, including in Thunderball, From Russia with Love and On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
As for today, the Submariner is still an iconic timepiece. With a classic design, it has never fallen out of favour with the fashionable amongst us. While they no longer cost $150 as originally advertised, they are well worth the investment.
