Rolex 2012 Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is one of the most imitated, sought-after, and important timepieces ever made. It is the gold standard against which many dive watches are measured and is a true horological institution in and of itself. Hell, it’s even appeared in 11 James Bond films. The Submariner first went into production in 1953, and was showcased at the Swiss Basel watch fair one year later. It’s only fitting that the next chapter in the Rolex Submariner also be revealed at Baselworld 2012. This new Submariner retains many of the same specifications and all of the same character that has helped it withstand the test of time: 300 meter water resistance, a 40mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel, scratch-proof Cerachrom bezel with platinum graduations, COSC certified mechanical Rolex movement, and that iconic Mercedes-style hour hand. The 2012 casing gets the most significant facelift, with the removal of the date window and its love-it-or-hate-it crystal cyclops. Wearers will also notice the updated, next-generation Rolex Oyster bracelet. And the luminous application on the indices and hands now glows blue. All worthy updates, but this is still very much the venerable Rolex Submariner. If it isn’t broken, why fix it?