The Rolex Submariner Comex History
The Rolex Submariner Comex, a legendary timepiece, stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between Rolex and Comex, a French diving company. This collaboration, born from the need for robust and reliable diving equipment, has produced some of the most sought-after and iconic Submariners ever created.
The Origins and Evolution of the Rolex Submariner Comex
The story of the Rolex Submariner Comex begins in the 1960s, when Comex, renowned for its pioneering work in deep-sea diving, sought a watch that could withstand the harsh conditions of underwater exploration. Recognizing the exceptional quality of Rolex watches, Comex approached the Swiss watchmaker to collaborate on a specialized version of the Submariner. This partnership led to the creation of a series of unique Submariner models, specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of professional divers.
- The first Comex Submariner, introduced in the early 1970s, featured a distinctive red “Comex” inscription on the dial, signifying its exclusive use by Comex divers. This model was also equipped with a helium escape valve, a critical safety feature for deep-sea diving. The valve allowed helium gas, which is used in saturation diving, to escape from the watch case during decompression, preventing the watch from imploding.
- As the collaboration progressed, Rolex and Comex continued to refine the Submariner, introducing several notable variations. One of the most sought-after versions was the “Double Red” Submariner, featuring both a red “Comex” inscription and a red “Sea-Dweller” inscription on the dial. This model was highly coveted by collectors for its rarity and historical significance.
- In the 1980s, Comex and Rolex introduced the “Single Red” Submariner, which featured a red “Comex” inscription on the dial but no “Sea-Dweller” inscription. This model was also equipped with a larger helium escape valve, further enhancing its durability and safety for deep-sea diving.
- Over the years, Rolex and Comex have continued to refine the Submariner, producing a range of models with unique features and specifications tailored to the needs of professional divers. These models have become synonymous with Comex and are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Unique Features of the Comex Submariner
The Comex Submariner is distinguished from standard Rolex Submariners by a number of unique features, reflecting its specific design for professional diving. These features include:
- Helium Escape Valve: As mentioned earlier, the Comex Submariner was equipped with a helium escape valve, which allowed helium gas to escape from the watch case during decompression, preventing the watch from imploding. This feature was crucial for saturation diving, where divers spend extended periods at depth and are exposed to high levels of helium gas.
- “Comex” Inscription: The Comex Submariner featured a distinctive red “Comex” inscription on the dial, signifying its exclusive use by Comex divers. This inscription served as a clear identifier for the watch and its specialized function.
- Unique Dial and Hand Configurations: Comex Submariners often featured unique dial and hand configurations, including different font styles, colors, and layouts. These variations were specific to certain models and reflected the evolving needs of Comex divers.
- “Double Red” and “Single Red” Dials: The “Double Red” and “Single Red” Submariners, as previously mentioned, featured distinctive red inscriptions on the dial, adding to their collectible appeal and historical significance.
Anecdotes and Stories Surrounding the Comex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner Comex is steeped in history and is associated with many fascinating anecdotes and stories. These stories highlight the watch’s exceptional reliability and its role in some of the most daring underwater explorations.
“The Comex Submariner was more than just a watch; it was a vital tool for professional divers. Its reliability and durability were essential for ensuring the safety and success of underwater operations.” – Jacques Cousteau, renowned oceanographer and explorer.
- The Comex Submariner was used in the recovery of the sunken treasure ship, the SS Central America, which was discovered in 1988. The watch’s exceptional water resistance and durability allowed divers to work safely at depths of over 2,000 meters.
- During the construction of the North Sea oil rigs in the 1970s, Comex divers relied on the Submariner to monitor their dive times and ensure their safety. The watch’s helium escape valve was essential for preventing the watches from imploding during decompression.
- The Comex Submariner was also used in the exploration of the wreck of the Titanic in 1985. The watch’s exceptional reliability and durability allowed divers to navigate the challenging conditions of the wreck site and document their findings.
The Rolex Submariner Comex
The Rolex Submariner Comex is a legendary watch that has earned a place in horological history for its exceptional performance and close association with the renowned French underwater exploration company, Comex. These watches, specially commissioned by Comex, were designed to withstand the extreme pressures and demanding conditions encountered during deep-sea dives. The Rolex Submariner Comex stands out as a testament to the enduring partnership between Rolex and Comex, a collaboration that pushed the boundaries of watchmaking and diving technology.
Technical Specifications and Design
The Rolex Submariner Comex models were distinguished by their unique features and specifications, reflecting the specific needs of professional divers. Here’s a table outlining the technical specifications of various Comex Submariner models:
| Model | Case Size | Movement | Bezel | Dial | Strap Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolex Submariner 5513 Comex | 40mm | Rolex Caliber 1520 | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings | Black dial with white hour markers and hands | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp |
| Rolex Submariner 1665 Comex | 40mm | Rolex Caliber 1530 | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings | Black dial with white hour markers and hands | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp |
| Rolex Submariner 1665 Double Red Comex | 40mm | Rolex Caliber 1530 | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings | Black dial with white hour markers and hands, “Double Red” inscription on the dial | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp |
| Rolex Submariner 1680 Comex | 40mm | Rolex Caliber 1570 | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings | Black dial with white hour markers and hands | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp |
The Comex Submariner models were known for their robust construction, featuring a thicker case than the standard Submariner models. This enhanced durability allowed the watches to withstand the immense pressure encountered during deep-sea dives. Additionally, the Comex Submariner models were often equipped with helium escape valves, a crucial feature for divers working in saturation diving environments.
Comparison with the Standard Rolex Submariner, Rolex sub comex
The Rolex Submariner Comex models were distinct from the standard Rolex Submariner models in several key aspects. The following table highlights the main differences:
| Feature | Rolex Submariner Comex | Standard Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Thickness | Thicker | Thinner |
| Bezel | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings | Black unidirectional bezel with white markings (early models) or a graduated bezel (later models) |
| Dial | Black dial with white hour markers and hands, “Comex” inscription on the dial (some models) | Black dial with white hour markers and hands (early models) or various other dial colors and configurations (later models) |
| Helium Escape Valve | Often equipped | Not equipped |
| Strap | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp | Oyster bracelet with a glidelock clasp (later models) or a jubilee bracelet (early models) |
The Comex Submariner models were designed specifically for professional divers and featured a robust construction, helium escape valves, and other specialized features that set them apart from the standard Rolex Submariner models.
Evolution of the Comex Submariner Design
The Rolex Submariner Comex underwent several design changes over the years, reflecting the evolving needs of professional divers and advancements in watchmaking technology. The following timeline illustrates the key changes in the Comex Submariner design:
1960s: The first Comex Submariner models were based on the Rolex Submariner 5513. These early models featured a thicker case, a black unidirectional bezel with white markings, and a black dial with white hour markers and hands.
1970s: The Rolex Submariner 1665 was introduced, featuring a larger case size and a new movement, the Rolex Caliber 1530. This model also incorporated a helium escape valve, a crucial feature for divers working in saturation diving environments.
1980s: The Rolex Submariner 1680 was released, featuring a date window at the 3 o’clock position. This model was also available with a “Double Red” inscription on the dial, signifying its association with Comex.
1990s: The Rolex Submariner 16600 was introduced, featuring a sapphire crystal and a new movement, the Rolex Caliber 3135. This model was also available with a “Comex” inscription on the dial.
2000s: The Rolex Submariner 16610 was released, featuring a ceramic bezel and a new movement, the Rolex Caliber 3135. This model was also available with a “Comex” inscription on the dial.
The evolution of the Comex Submariner design reflects the close collaboration between Rolex and Comex, with each iteration incorporating new features and advancements to meet the demands of professional divers.
The Legacy of the Rolex Submariner Comex: Rolex Sub Comex
The Rolex Submariner Comex, a watch born from a partnership between Rolex and the renowned underwater exploration company Comex, left an indelible mark on the watch industry and continues to inspire watchmakers and collectors alike. Its unique design features, rugged construction, and association with daring underwater expeditions solidified its place as a legend in the world of diving watches.
Impact on the Watch Industry and Diving Watch Design
The Rolex Submariner Comex’s impact on the watch industry is undeniable. Its introduction of features like the helium escape valve, a crucial safety feature for deep-sea divers, revolutionized diving watch design. This innovation ensured that watches could withstand the immense pressure of deep-sea dives without being damaged.
The Comex Submariner’s distinct aesthetic, characterized by its black dial, large luminous hour markers, and the iconic “Comex” inscription, became a symbol of professional diving and a coveted collectible. It set a new standard for diving watches, inspiring other brands to incorporate similar design elements and functionality into their own models.
The Comex Submariner’s Lasting Influence
The legacy of the Comex Submariner extends beyond its technical innovations. Its association with Comex’s groundbreaking underwater exploration missions, including the recovery of the Thresher submarine, cemented its place in history. The watch became a symbol of adventure, resilience, and the human spirit’s ability to push boundaries.
The Future of the Comex Submariner
The future of the Comex Submariner remains a topic of speculation among watch enthusiasts. Given its historical significance and enduring popularity, there is a strong possibility of reissues or limited-edition releases in the future. Rolex has a history of honoring its past with special editions, and the Comex Submariner’s legacy makes it a prime candidate for such a tribute.
While a definitive answer remains elusive, the demand for the Comex Submariner remains high, suggesting that its legacy will continue to inspire both watchmakers and collectors for years to come.
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