When it comes to luxury watches, few names hold the prestige and allure that Rolex does. Known for its impeccable craftsmanship, timeless designs, and enduring value, Rolex has established itself as the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking. Among its vast collection of iconic timepieces, one watch stands out as a true legend—the Rolex Submariner.
A symbol of precision, endurance, and elegance, the Submariner has captured the imagination of watch collectors and enthusiasts for more than seven decades. Now, Rolex has taken a monumental step by releasing its first-ever official book dedicated to the Submariner: Oyster Perpetual Submariner – The Watch That Unlocked the Deep.
This 252-page hardcover book, authored by renowned watch historian Nicholas Foulkes, not only pays tribute to the Submariner’s legacy but also offers unprecedented insights into its design, technical innovations, and cultural significance. For the first time in its history, Rolex has sanctioned a book that delves deeply into the origins and evolution of one of its most celebrated models, offering a treasure trove of information for both seasoned collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. The book’s release marks a major milestone in the world of horology, offering a glimpse into the secretive world of Rolex and its most famous timepiece.
Table of Contents
The Submariner: More Than Just a Watch
First introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner was initially designed as a tool watch for divers. Its revolutionary design allowed for waterproofing up to depths of 100 meters, a feat that was groundbreaking at the time. Over the years, the Submariner evolved not only as a vital piece of equipment for underwater exploration but also as a symbol of status and adventure. Its bold design, featuring the iconic Oyster case, rotating bezel, and luminescent markers, made it an instant classic.
The Submariner quickly became synonymous with toughness and reliability, traits that are reflected in its association with various professions, from divers to military personnel. However, it wasn’t long before the watch transcended its utilitarian origins to become a luxury item coveted by collectors, athletes, and celebrities. Today, the Submariner is not just a diver’s tool; it’s a style statement, a piece of history, and a status symbol all rolled into one.
Rolex’s Decision to Publish Its First Official Book
What makes this book so special is that it is the first-ever authorized publication about a specific Rolex model. Over the years, many books have been written about Rolex, but none of them had the brand’s official stamp of approval—until now. Rolex has always been a brand known for its secrecy, so the fact that the company has opened its doors to author Nicholas Foulkes and the design magazine Wallpaper for this project is significant. For the first time, readers will get an authorized glimpse into the archives of Rolex, offering fresh perspectives and never-before-seen information about the Submariner.
The collaboration with Wallpaper, a publication known for its focus on design and aesthetics, ensures that the book will not only be rich in content but also visually stunning. The book promises to be filled with high-quality images of the Submariner, including vintage advertisements, technical schematics, and photos of the watch in action, both in the deep sea and in popular culture. With Rolex’s stamp of approval, this book will undoubtedly become a must-have for collectors and fans of the brand.
Nicholas Foulkes: The Perfect Author for the Job
Nicholas Foulkes is no stranger to the world of luxury watches. A prolific writer and historian, Foulkes has authored several books on topics ranging from fashion to horology. His deep knowledge of the watch industry and his passion for storytelling make him the ideal person to tackle the history of the Rolex Submariner. Known for his ability to weave together historical facts with engaging narratives, Foulkes brings the Submariner’s story to life in a way that both educates and entertains.
In Oyster Perpetual Submariner – The Watch That Unlocked the Deep, Foulkes delves into the technical innovations that made the Submariner a game-changer in the world of diving watches. He also explores the cultural impact of the watch, tracing its journey from a practical tool to a luxury item coveted by collectors and celebrities. Foulkes’ access to Rolex’s archives has allowed him to uncover fascinating stories about the development of the Submariner, including the challenges faced by the engineers and designers who created it.
A Deep Dive into the Submariner’s History
The Submariner’s journey began in the early 1950s when Rolex set out to create a watch that could withstand the rigors of deep-sea diving. The result was the Oyster Perpetual Submariner, a watch that was both waterproof and highly durable. The Submariner’s Oyster case, which was first introduced in the 1920s, was a key component of its waterproof design. The rotating bezel allowed divers to keep track of their time underwater, while the luminescent markers ensured visibility in low-light conditions.
Over the years, the Submariner has undergone several design changes and technological advancements. Early models featured small details that are now highly prized by collectors, such as the “Big Crown” and the “Bart Simpson” coronet, a reference to the shape of the Rolex logo. These subtle variations between models have become a source of fascination for watch enthusiasts, who carefully study the differences in reference numbers and production years.
The book also highlights the role of the Submariner in popular culture. From its association with James Bond, who wore the watch in several films, to its appearance on the wrists of famous athletes and actors, the Submariner has cemented its place as a cultural icon. The book’s inclusion of vintage advertisements and promotional materials offers a nostalgic look at how the Submariner was marketed over the years, adding to its mystique and allure.
The Evolution of a Status Symbol
While the Submariner was originally designed as a tool for divers, it eventually became a luxury item that symbolized wealth and success. In the 1970s and 1980s, the watch transitioned from being a practical instrument to a fashion statement. Its robust design, combined with its association with adventure and exploration, made it a favorite among affluent buyers. The Submariner became the go-to watch for those who wanted to project an image of sophistication and adventure.
Today, the Submariner is one of the most sought-after watches in the world. Despite being in continuous production for over 70 years, the demand for the Submariner far exceeds the supply. It is not uncommon for prospective buyers to be placed on waiting lists for years, and the resale market for vintage Submariners is booming. The watch’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its timeless design, its association with adventure, and its status as a symbol of success.
