Rolex Submariner History

The Rolex Submariner became arguably the most iconic dive watch in history since it’s introduction in the post war economic boom in 1953. The “Sub” set the styling standards for the dive watch category and sport watch category alike with the black dial; stainless steel casing and rotating bezel. Prior to the 1950’s Rolex made everyday and dress watches, however this began to change with the and Rolex Explorer summiting Mt Everest and the release of the Rolex Submariner. Rolex took this design leap of faith to cater to the adventurous market and broaden their core offerings from basic dress watches.

The original Rolex Submariner was the Ref. 6204, with the word “Submariner” printed above 6 o’clock. Little did Rolex know this would change the course of sports watch history. Different versions were made with “Sub-Aqua” printed instead of Submariner for the British market. Below 12 o’clock was printed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual as seen on many of their other watches. The Ref. 6204 was touted by Rolex as the first watch rated to 100m waterproof and had a stainless steel case measuring a very wearable 37mm. The casing housed an automatic Rolex Calibre A260 with built in shock protection.

The Rolex Submariner has varied slightly over the years but the overall design and functionality remains the same, a classic dive watch people fell in love with when it was released in 1953. The Submariner is a grail watch to many and is forever immortalised as one of the best mechanical sports watches every created.

At OBR Horology we repair vintage Rolex Submariners up until 2005. My prices are competitive and less than returning your watch to Rolex for maintenance, all servicing performed at OBR Horology comes with a 1 year warranty.

If you wish to enquire about getting your Rolex Submariner repaired please contact me on 0423 451 991 or at repairs@obrhorology.com.au. I look forward to hearing from you.