Rolex Submariner History: 1960 -2009
The Experimental Years of the Rolex Submariner were coming to an end by the end of the 1950’s. By the early 1960s, heavily revised models such as the 5508 (small crown) and 5510 (large crown). The 5512 (chronometer version) and 5513 (non-chronometer) came about with a significant new physique: Shoulders were added to the crown to uphold their protective role as bodyguards for the winding mechanism.
In earlier watches of the period, these types of protective shoulders had been shaped more like pyramids. This new design allowed for a more esthetic oversized crown on the Submariner 5512 and 5513, which has of course become a mainstay, even today.
Rolex Submariner
In the late 1960s, a final change came to the Submariner ref. 1680, as it became the very first Submariner equipped with a date complication, and hence transitioned from a specialty tool watch into a fashion accessory for the masses.
Throughout the next 40 years, the Submariner was consistently updated with cosmetic upgrades and functions such as improved water resistance and innovative new movements.
Comex Submariners:
(1) 1970-1973 Early Submariners Ref:-5513 with valve.
(2) 1972-1978 Submariners Unique Comex Ref:- 5514 with valve.
(2) 1972-1978 Submariners Unique Comex Ref:- 5514 with valve.
(3) 1978-1979 Submariner Ref:- 1680, no valve.
(4) 1982-1986 Submariner Sapphire Ref:-1680 no valve with matt or gloss dial.
(5) 1988-1989 Submariner Sapphire Ref:-16800 no valve gloss dial.
(6) 1988-1989 Submariners Ref: 168000 no valve with gloss dial.
(7) 1986-1997 Submariners Ref:-16610 no valve.
Military Submariners:
Model references A/6538, 5510, 5513, 5513/5517, 5517.
The New Rolex Submariner was released in 2020. This new model comes with a slightly larger 41mm case. It is built with a much more modern and powerful caliber 3230. This new caliber provides an amazing 70 hours of power reserve.
These are the new references
Reference 124060 – Black Dial, Black Bezel, No Date Window, Oystersteel
Reference 126610LN – Black Dial, Black Bezel, With Date Window, Oystersteel
Reference 126610LV – Green Bezel, Black Dial, With Date Window, Oystersteel
Reference 126613LB – Blue Bezel, Blue Dial, Date Window, and Rolesor coloring (Gold and Oystersteel)
Reference 126619LB – Blue Bezel, Black Dial, Date Window, and White Gold throughout.
Reference 126618LB – Blue Bezel, Blue Dial, Date Window, and Yellow Gold throughout.
Reference 126618LN – Black Dial, Black Bezel, Date Window, and Yellow Gold throughout.
Reference 126613LN – Black Dial, Black Bezel, Date Window, and Rolesor Mix of Oystersteel and Gold.
Rubber B offers 4 different types of bands for the Rolex Hulk Submariner. Each band design comes with different colors and features. For more information, visit our Rolex Submariner band page here. Every Rubber B bracelet is made from pure 100% vulcanized rubber. All bands are made in Switzerland of the highest standards.
Regardless if you like the Rolex Submariner date or no date, you need a Rubber B strap.
Rubber B has released a tremendous new color into its lineup. Many Rolex Submariner owners have been asking for a Green band to match their Submariner “HULK”, “Kermit” and even all-black models. It will match any Rolex Submariner date or no date. The Rubber B Carbon Fiber Series rubber strap is engineered to fit Rolex Submariner Ceramic case and Glidelock clasp*.
Our exclusive STRENGTH INFUSION TECHNOLOGY provides upgraded support against the friction, weight, and frequent micro-adjustments made daily to your Rolex Glidelock Clasp. Carbon Fiber molecules are fused within the vulcanized rubber during its mold process. The result is a substantial increase in vertical and lateral stress resistance while maintaining supple, flexible comfort around the wearer’s wrist.
