Rolex Submariner vs. Sea-Dweller: Difference between the Two Divers Rolex watches

Like many others, you may also wonder, ‘what was officially the first ever diver watch?’ However, it was known to be a subject that brings about much debate among the watch nerds. Nonetheless, two aspects are typically agreed on – one is, the Rolex Submariner wasn’t the first diver watch and second, the Submariner is yet the watch that most effortlessly crosses one’s mind when people hear the words ‘diver watches’.

Thus, today we will compare between the two popular diver Rolex watches – Rolex Submariner and Rolex Sea-Dweller. While these two timepieces may look virtually identical to the untrained eyes or at first glance, they yet have very few subtle differences. So, whether you are looking to sell a Rolex Submariner or sell your Rolex Sea-Dweller watch, first have a look below at the synopsis of the factors that both these Rolexes possess in common and also, the aspects that make each one unique.

The First Ever Rolex Submariner

Introduced in the 1920s, the Rolex Oyster case had exhibited its proficiencies in circumstances that were once regarded as unimaginable for a wristwatch. The Oyster’s impassable seals are designed not only to keep water out but also, to prevent the intricate inner watch complications from humidity and dust.

The Italian Navy, between the wars, realised that they need a watch for their admired diving unit that is readable even in the darkest of water. Panerai was their chosen supplier, and the company was known to utilise the luminescent properties of radium on their various underwater implements, without being aware of its devastating effects. Consequently, they teamed up with the Geneva-based Swiss manufacturer –Rolex on the project.

The Radiomir was the outcome of this collaboration that featured a Rolex Oyster case along with Rolex movement, thereby offering the inspiration for the company to start manufacturing its diver watches.

The Rolex Submariner Reference 6204 was launched in 1953 – the first ever watch water resistant up to 100m. Although the watch sported a simplistic design, it had all the eligibilities to be the perfect diver’s companion. Indeed, the watch had a classic look that could flaunt any outfit and occasion.

However, about 30years later, Rolex offered the Submariner 6204 a unidirectional bezel as an additional safety precaution. The Rolex Submariner became the most popular diver sports watch, especially after its association with James Bond, Steve McQueen and the Royal Navy.

Most of the contemporary Rolex Submariner references today come with a date complication at the 3 o’clock position and a Cyclops magnification lens on its sapphire crystals. The Submariner Ref. 116610 has 40mm diameter, a redesigned case with thicker crown guards and lugs, offering a more angular and more significant appearance than its earlier references.

All the date displaying contemporary Submariner watches sport Calibre 3135 movements that today feature the patent, Blue Parachrom hairsprings to offer higher resistance to temperature variations and shocks. However, the Submariner 116610 comes with a black bezel insert and a black dial. Besides, a particular version is also available in green bezel insert and green dial, nicknamed as the ‘Hulk’.

The Rolex Sea-Dweller

The Rolex Sea-Dweller was initially manufactured in collaboration with the French company – COMEX that specialises in deep diving operations and engineering. While the company in the 1960s required a diving timepiece for their professional divers for using when working on deep sea oil rigs, Rolex developed the Sea-Dweller making alterations to their basic Submariner watches.

By 1967, the brand new Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 was equipped with a helium escape valve and listed for commercial sale. The watch was in production from 1967 to 1977, nearly for ten years. The highly durable Sea-Dweller was water resistant to a depth of 2000ft (610m). Other improvements made to the ref. 1665 include a thicker profile crystal, a bigger reinforced case, a Triplock crown and Caliber 1570, 26 jewels movement.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller 4000 watch superseded the Ref.1665 with the ability to reach up to a depth of 4000ft (1220m). With unconventional examples in green and blue along with precious metal versions, the Rolex Sea-Dweller could successfully retain an air of exclusivity.

Now, here comes the exciting part:

It is traditionally believed that Rolex Sea-Dweller watches have avoided being entirely inundated by the shadow of Rolex Submariner. But, why?

When the first Submariner ref. 1680 emerged with a date function; it was introduced with the patented magnifying lens of Rolex over the 3 o’clock position. The magnifying lens or the Cyclops offers a 2.5x increase to the visible size of the date numerals under it. However, many people considered that it ravages the dial’s simple symmetry.

The depths at which the Sea-Dweller was designed to function and the following crushing pressure that inflicts on it made impossible for the manufacturer to equip the timepiece with its Cyclops. Nevertheless, the Cyclops will always have split opinions and indeed, would continue to have it.

However, the new generation Sea-Dweller Ref. 126600 launched last year with a new 43mm case, offering a more surface area to play with. Besides, the lens takes up a relatively smaller dial space.

Are you looking to sell your Rolex watch?

For those who are looking to sell their Rolex watch, or ‘how to sell my Rolex Submariner?’, begin the process by filling up an online quote form of any trustworthy Rolex watch buyers in London or anywhere in the UK and get a free valuation right away. With a reliable dealer, you are likely to receive the best possible price for your Rolex watch without any obligation and hassle.