The Rolex Submariner, a watch synonymous with diving prowess and enduring style, has captivated collectors and enthusiasts for decades. While its iconic design remains largely consistent, subtle changes throughout its history have resulted in variations in its dimensions, particularly its height. Understanding the height of the Submariner, especially in the context of its various models and iterations, provides valuable insight into its evolution and the nuances that distinguish one version from another. This article will delve into the height of the Rolex Submariner, exploring its historical context, examining specific models, and comparing different generations to paint a comprehensive picture of this crucial aspect of the watch's design.
The Significance of Height in a Diver's Watch:
Before we delve into the specific heights of various Submariner models, it's crucial to understand why height is a significant factor in a professional diving watch. A diver's watch must withstand immense pressure at significant depths. While case thickness contributes to water resistance, it also impacts wearability. A thicker watch, while potentially more robust, can be less comfortable on the wrist, especially during extended periods underwater. The balance between robust water resistance and comfortable wearability is a delicate one, and Rolex has continually strived to optimize this balance throughout the Submariner's development.
Early Submariners and the 5513:
The Rolex Submariner's height has varied throughout its history. Early models, particularly those preceding the 1970s, tended to be slightly thinner than their later counterparts. The iconic Rolex Submariner 5513, produced from 1962 to 1989, serves as a prime example. While precise height measurements vary slightly depending on specific variations and individual examples (due to factors like crystal dome height and case back tolerances), the 5513 generally measures around 11-12mm in height. This relatively modest height contributed to its considerable popularity among professional divers who valued both functionality and comfort. The 5513's relatively slim profile, coupled with its robust construction, made it a favored tool watch for underwater exploration.
The COMEX Connection and Height Variations:
From 1970 onwards, the French diving company COMEX received a special version of the Rolex Submariner 5513. These COMEX Submariners, often modified for specific saturation diving operations, sometimes featured slight variations in height. These variations weren't necessarily standardized, and depended on the specific modifications COMEX requested for each batch. Some modifications, for instance, might have involved thicker crystals or slightly altered casebacks to accommodate specialized equipment. Understanding the height of a COMEX Submariner requires careful examination of the specific watch and its modifications. The variations, however, were generally minimal and fell within a small range compared to the differences seen between distinct Submariner generations.
The Transition to Larger Cases: The 16610 and Beyond:
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