The Rolex Submariner, a name synonymous with diving excellence and enduring style, holds a special place in horological history. Within this iconic lineage, a subset stands apart: the COMEX Submariners. These exceptional timepieces, produced for the French underwater engineering company, Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises (COMEX), represent a pinnacle of both functionality and rarity, captivating collectors worldwide. This article delves into the fascinating world of the vintage Rolex Submariner COMEX, exploring its production history, key features, and the factors that contribute to its exceptional value and desirability.
Production Years and the COMEX Connection:
The production period of the COMEX Submariners, spanning from approximately 1962 to 1989, reflects a significant era in diving technology and exploration. Unlike standard Submariners, these watches weren't simply sold to the public. Instead, they were specifically commissioned by COMEX for their saturation divers, professionals who worked at extreme depths for extended periods. This unique relationship forged a watch designed to withstand the brutal conditions of deep-sea exploration, surpassing even the robust specifications of the standard Submariner. The collaboration resulted in several key modifications and features, setting these watches apart as some of the most desirable and sought-after Rolex pieces.
The exact number of COMEX Submariners produced remains a subject of speculation and debate among collectors, adding to their mystique and allure. Their limited production, coupled with their rigorous use and subsequent wear, makes finding an authentic, well-preserved example a significant undertaking. The scarcity further elevates their value, making them a highly prized possession for serious watch enthusiasts and investors.
Case Diameter and Materials: A Robust Design for Extreme Environments:
The COMEX Submariners largely maintained the classic 40mm case diameter, a size that has proven both practical and aesthetically pleasing across generations. This relatively large size, for its time, provided ample space for the movement and ensured legibility, crucial for divers working in low-light conditions. The case itself, constructed from robust stainless steel, was designed to withstand immense pressure at significant depths. The material's resilience, combined with the watch's water resistance, was paramount to the safety and reliability expected by COMEX divers.
Functions and Dial Variations: A Legacy of Legibility and Durability:
The function of the COMEX Submariner remained true to its purpose: accurate timekeeping. The simple time-only display with running seconds provided all the information necessary for the divers. However, the dials themselves offer a fascinating area of variation. Collectors appreciate the subtle differences in dial aesthetics, including the variations in luminous hour markers (gilt, matte, or gloss with applied markers), adding another layer of complexity and desirability to each individual piece. The black dials, often characterized by their matte or slightly glossy finish, were chosen for their high contrast and legibility in dark underwater environments.
Bezel and Crystal: Functionality Meets Durability:
The bidirectional rotating bezel, a hallmark of the Submariner, played a crucial role in the COMEX version. Its black aluminum insert, with its 60-minute scale, allowed divers to accurately monitor their dive time, a critical aspect of safe and successful underwater operations. The aluminum bezel insert, while prone to fading and wear with age, adds to the character and authenticity of a vintage COMEX Submariner. The domed acrylic crystal, while less scratch-resistant than modern sapphire crystals, offered superior shock resistance, a key consideration for a watch subjected to the harsh realities of deep-sea diving. The acrylic crystal also contributes to the vintage aesthetic, and its characteristic patina is often sought after by collectors.
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