Submariner
A model tool watch
With a case waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet), a unidirectional rotatable bezel graduated over 60 minutes and luminescent display features, the Submariner and Submariner Date both boast essential technical attributes that make them benchmarks in the world of divers’ watches.
Graduated bezel
Legibility and security on the wrist
A key feature of all Rolex divers’ watches, the unidirectional rotatable bezel is graduated over 60 minutes and boasts a triangular ‘zero’ marker with a luminescent capsule. This bezel is an essential technical feature that allows divers to read their immersion time with precision.
Thanks to a knurled edge that offers excellent grip, the bezel can also be turned with ease underwater, even when wearing gloves. Its single direction of rotation allows divers to safely monitor their dive time.
Manufactured by Rolex and patented, the monobloc Cerachrom bezel insert is made of high-technology ceramic. Special tools are needed to machine this extremely hard and virtually scratchproof material. Its chemical composition makes it inert and resistant to corrosion. Furthermore, its colour is unaffected by ultraviolet rays.
The moulded, recessed markers and numerals of the 60-minute graduation are coated with gold or platinum via PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition).
Oyster case and Triplock crown
Reinforced waterproofness
The 41-mm Oyster case of the Submariner and Submariner Date features a middle case in Oystersteel, 18 kt yellow gold or 18 kt white gold. A paragon of robustness and reliability, it is waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet). Its performance has been confirmed by the tests carried out as part of the Superlative Chronometer certification process.
The waterproofness of the Submariner’s Oyster case is reinforced by our Triplock winding crown. This screw-down crown was launched in 1970 and comprises three waterproofness zones. It is composed of around 10 components made from materials selected for their intrinsic properties: polymers for the waterproof seals, Oystersteel, precious metals and RLX titanium for the mechanical and aesthetic parts.
The Triplock crown is screwed into the case to make it perfectly waterproof and has lateral shields on the middle case to protect it from shocks. Stamped into the case, the crown guard was first introduced in 1959 on the Submariner.
The Triplock crown is recognizable by its three raised symbols under the Rolex emblem. Dots or a line, these symbols differ depending on the material used.
Chromalight display
The power of the blue glow
The Chromalight display gives the Submariner and the Submariner Date optimal legibility in any circumstances. The innovative luminescent material applied to the hour markers and hands and contained in the bezel capsule is a brilliant white in daylight and emits an intense blue glow in the dark. This is a vital feature when diving at night, in murky waters or in deep water where the sun’s rays never reach.
The dial of Submariner watches features large hour markers in simple shapes – triangles, circles and rectangles – characteristic of our Professional watches. These geometric forms make it possible to read the time reliably and instantly.
Exclusive alloys and precious combinations
Durability and refinement
- The Submariner and the Submariner Date are available in Oystersteel, an exclusive alloy that belongs to the 904L steel family, most commonly used in high-technology environments, such as in the aerospace and chemical industries. In 1985, Rolex became the first watchmaking brand to use solid blocks of 904L steel to manufacture certain cases. Oystersteel is extremely corrosion-resistant and retains its lustre even when the watch is put to extreme use.
- Like the 18 kt yellow gold and 18 kt white gold that adorn certain versions of the Submariner Date, all Rolex golds are created and cast in the Manufacture’s own foundry. Composed of 750‰ pure gold and blends of silver, copper or palladium, these precious alloys are distinguished by their remarkable radiance and quality.
- A true Rolex signature since the early 1930s, Rolesor is a marriage of metals, combining gold and steel in a duet where refinement meets robustness. The yellow Rolesor version of the Submariner Date is available either with a blue Cerachrom insert and dial or a black Cerachrom insert and dial.
Oyster bracelet
Comfort and robustness
Developed in the late 1930s, the Oyster bracelet combines comfort and robustness with its rows of metal three-piece links.
On Submariner Date models in 18 kt gold, the Oyster bracelet incorporates ceramic inserts. These small tubes, which surround the link pins, increase the bracelet’s longevity and improve wearing comfort.
Oysterlock clasp
Security and reliability in all circumstances
Reserved for Rolex Professional watches, the patented Oysterlock clasp is synonymous with cutting-edge technology. It features a folding clasp mechanism and a safety catch that prevents accidental opening. It guarantees both reliable fastening and comfortable handling, including underwater.
Integrated into the clasp is the Rolex Glidelock extension system, a sophisticated device consisting of a rack that allows the length of the bracelet to be finely adjusted without the need for tools. The Rolex Glidelock on the Oyster bracelet has 10 notches of around 2 mm each, an extension capacity that makes it easy to fit the watch over a diving suit.
Calibre 3230 and Calibre 3235
Performance in movement
Certified Superlative Chronometers, the Submariner and Submariner Date are equipped respectively with our calibres 3230 and 3235.
Entirely developed and manufactured in our workshops, these self-winding mechanical movements via Perpetual rotor incorporate our latest watchmaking innovations.
Calibres 3230 and 3235 are fitted with our blue Parachrom hairspring. Resistant to shocks and strong magnetic fields, this hairspring is extremely stable when exposed to temperature fluctuations. They also include our patented Chronergy escapement: a mechanism made from a nickel-phosphorus alloy, which is also virtually insensitive to strong magnetic interference and offers great dependability.
The oscillator of these movements has a large balance wheel with variable inertia, precisely regulated via gold Microstella nuts and mounted on high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers. As for the oscillating weight, it has been fitted with an optimized ball bearing since 2023.
Consummate demonstrations of technology, calibres 3230 and 3235 carry a number of patents. They offer outstanding performance, particularly in terms of chronometric precision (rate variation of -2/+2 seconds per day), as well as power reserve (approximately 70 hours), shock resistance, convenience and reliability.