The Ultimate Guide: Where to Buy Authentic Rolex Submariner Watches
The Submariner is one of the most iconic, recognizable, and influential watches in history. Its simple design has stayed more or less unchanged for nearly half a century. The model has earned many charming nicknames, including Kermit and Hulk.
It has been worn by maritime professionals and sported by actors and celebrities. Today, the Submariner continues to be an investment in elegance and financial value.
The Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner is more than just a legendary timepiece – it’s also one of the most affordable Rolex models on the market. As a pioneer of dive watches, the Submariner has been adapted to fit in with new trends and tastes over the years but still retains its classic look.
Rolex’s most recent Submariners feature redesigned 41 mm cases and the new Caliber 3235 movement. They are fitted to a 904L Oyster bracelet with the Glidelock extension system, which allows you to adjust the bracelet size by up to 20 mm in increments without the need for tools.
The most popular modern Rolex Submariner is the green “Kermit” ref. 16610LV. This reference, which was introduced in 2003, has found a large audience and has performed very well on the second-hand market. Rolex’s commitment to color has been a key factor in the success of this model. This was largely due to the advice of the company’s director at the time, Rene-Paul Jeanneret, who was a recreational diver and helped design the original Submariner.
Rolex Submariner Date
The Rolex Submariner Date is one of the most iconic and reliable watches around. Its popularity has driven its prices up, but it’s still an affordable watch compared to many other luxury timepieces on the market. You can find a stainless steel no-date or Date version for less than $8,000.
Rolex updated the Submariner in 2020 with a slightly larger 41mm case and new in-house movements. The caliber 3230 powers the no-date models, while the caliber 3235 ticks inside the Date editions. Rolex also tweaked the bracelet’s lug widths, making it feel more streamlined on the wrist.
These small changes are what make the Submariner Date feel more like a modern tool watch than a classic diver. It’s the perfect watch for those looking to upgrade from a simple black-on-black model, and it’s no wonder prices have skyrocketed despite recent market corrections. You can expect to pay between 16,000 and 26,000 USD for a mint-condition Submariner Date ref. 126610LV.
Rolex Submariner COMEX
The Rolex Submariner is the most popular dive watch in the world. This iconic tool watch is versatile enough for casual wear, but also looks great with formal attire. The Submariner has a number of different iterations that are distinguished by their unique features, materials, and design elements. While some iterations of the Submariner are more affordable than others, rare vintage models have been known to sell for six-figures at auction.
The ref 5514 COMEX is one of the most sought-after Submariner models in the world. It was produced exclusively for the Compagnie maritime d’expertises (COMEX) diving company between 1970 and 1997. COMEX watches are easily identifiable by the inscription of the company name on the case back and the repeated serial number on the dial.
Rolex COMEX Submariners are not as common as other Submariner models, but they are still a highly desirable watch for collectors and investors alike. If you want to purchase a new COMEX Submariner, you should expect to pay a premium of around 10% over the price of a similar stainless steel Rolex No Date model.
Rolex Submariner Pre-Owned
The Rolex Submariner has remained a pop culture icon and favorite among professional divers for decades. It has also earned a prestigious reputation for its high performance and stylish designs. Our collection of pre-owned Submariner watches features a variety of styles to suit your unique tastes. Whether you’re looking for the sleek contrast of black tones or the beautiful glow of yellow gold, our collection has something for you.
Choosing the best used Rolex Submariner depends on your individual preference and budget. While the overall look of the watch has remained unchanged since its inception, Rolex does surprise enthusiasts with small alterations and fresh color combinations from time to time. In order to find the right model for you, it’s important to understand Rolex reference numbers. These are the specific model numbers that differentiate each variation of the Submariner. Collectors and other horologists use these references to identify different models. Buying the right model is key to maintaining the value of your watch.