In the Submariner univers

One of the very first Professional watches, the Submariner has become the archetype of the tool watch designed for underwater exploration. When it was introduced in 1953, the Oyster Perpetual Submariner was the world’s first wristwatch guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres. At the forefront of watchmaking innovation, the Submariner, as well as the Submariner Date, today embodies all the qualities that define a reliable and secure professional instrument.

Much like those who venture confidently into the unknown depths of the ocean, many wearers have chosen the Submariner to explore far broader horizons. On the wrist, it gradually transcended its original purpose, evolving beyond its functional roots to become a universally recognised icon.

The original design and features of the Submariner were entirely dictated by the practical needs of divers. Over time, continuous material innovations have further enhanced its performance. Today, the use of Oystersteel, renowned for its exceptional resistance, high-technology ceramic that is virtually scratch-resistant, and improved luminescent materials ensure that both the Submariner and the Submariner Date remain firmly anchored in their era.

While these watches continue to serve as essential survival instruments beneath the ocean’s surface, they have also become enduring archetypes of the tool watch, admired well beyond the world of professional diving.

At its launch in 1953, the Submariner was the first wristwatch guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres. This depth rating was increased to 200 metres the following year and then to 300 metres in 1989. The Submariner Date, introduced in 1969, was initially guaranteed waterproof to 200 metres and later to 300 metres from 1979 onwards.

These successive improvements reflect Rolex’s constant commitment to pushing the boundaries of waterproofness, a pursuit that began with the development of the Oyster case in the 1920s.

Several technical features and design elements of the Submariner were later taken into account in the establishment of the international standard for diving watches in 1981. The Submariner also marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would give rise to an entire family of watches designed for extreme depths, including the Sea-Dweller in 1967, the Rolex Deepsea in 2008 and the Deepsea Challenge in 2022.