The Rolex Submariner, a cornerstone of the brand's iconic collection, has undergone several iterations since its inception in 1953. While renowned for its robust functionality and timeless design, the thickness of the Submariner has also evolved, reflecting advancements in watchmaking technology and shifting aesthetic preferences. This article delves into the intricacies of Submariner thickness, exploring the historical context, the impact of the 2020 redesign, and the implications for collectors and enthusiasts.
The 2020 Revolution and the Thickness Question:
The year 2020 marked a pivotal moment in Submariner history. For the first time, Rolex simultaneously updated the entire Submariner collection. This sweeping change saw the retirement of the beloved Ref. 114060 (40mm no-date) and the introduction of its successor, the Ref. 124060, along with the updated Ref. 126610 (41mm date). This update wasn't merely cosmetic; it involved significant internal changes, impacting the overall dimensions, including the thickness.
The "big watch" craze, prevalent in recent years, played a role in this decision. Consumers increasingly favored larger wristwatches, leading Rolex to subtly adjust the size of the Submariner, increasing the diameter from 40mm to 41mm. However, the thickness change wasn't solely a consequence of the increased diameter. The updated movement, Caliber 3230 in the no-date and Caliber 3235 in the date model, incorporated advancements in chronometric performance and power reserve. These improvements, while contributing to enhanced functionality, also influenced the overall case thickness.
While precise measurements vary slightly depending on the specific model and year of production, the 2020 models generally exhibit a slightly increased thickness compared to their predecessors. This increase, though subtle, is noticeable to those familiar with the previous generations. The added thickness isn't necessarily a negative; it contributes to a more substantial feel on the wrist, reflecting the enhanced internal mechanisms.
Rolex Submariner Size Chart: A Historical Perspective:
Understanding the thickness of the Submariner requires a historical perspective. The following provides a generalized overview, acknowledging that minor variations exist due to manufacturing tolerances and case variations:
| Model | Year Introduced (approx.) | Diameter | Thickness (approx.) | Notes |
|----------------------|----------------------------|----------|----------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Ref. 6204/6205 | 1953-1957 | 37mm | ~11mm | Original Submariner, relatively thin. |
| Ref. 5512/5513 | 1957-1980s | 36mm | ~12mm | Transition period, slightly thicker. |
| Ref. 14060M | 1980s-2000s | 40mm | ~12-13mm | Modern era begins, thicker than predecessors.|
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