Rolex Submariner COMEX A Dive into History and Value

The History of the Rolex Submariner COMEX

The Rolex Submariner COMEX, a legendary timepiece, represents a fascinating chapter in the history of diving and the enduring partnership between Rolex and the French underwater engineering company, COMEX. This collaboration, born from a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration, resulted in a series of modified Submariner models specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of deep-sea diving.

The Origins of the COMEX Partnership, Rolex submariner comex

The COMEX partnership with Rolex began in the 1960s, when COMEX, a pioneer in underwater engineering and diving, was seeking a reliable and robust timepiece for its divers. The Rolex Submariner, already renowned for its water resistance and precision, caught the attention of COMEX engineers. They recognized its potential as a tool that could withstand the extreme pressures and conditions of deep-sea diving. This shared vision led to a collaboration that would shape the evolution of the Submariner and the future of deep-sea diving.

Modifications Made to the Submariner for COMEX

COMEX’s requirements for deep-sea diving led to several modifications to the Submariner, resulting in a series of unique and highly sought-after models. These modifications focused on enhancing the watch’s functionality, reliability, and visibility in challenging underwater environments.

Helium Escape Valve: One of the most significant modifications was the addition of a helium escape valve, a crucial feature for divers using saturation diving techniques. Saturation diving involves spending extended periods at depth, often in pressurized chambers filled with helium. Helium, being a small molecule, can permeate through seals and into the watch case, building up pressure and potentially causing the watch crystal to pop out. The helium escape valve, located on the side of the watch case, allows excess helium to escape during decompression, preventing damage to the watch.
Orange Dial: Another distinctive feature of the COMEX Submariner was the orange dial. This bright orange color, often referred to as “COMEX orange,” provided excellent visibility in the murky depths, making it easier for divers to read the time in low-light conditions. The orange dial also served as a visual indicator, distinguishing COMEX-modified Submariners from standard production models.
Larger Crown: The COMEX Submariner also featured a larger crown, making it easier for divers to manipulate the watch in thick gloves. The larger crown provided a more secure grip, ensuring that divers could easily set the time and wind the watch, even while wearing heavy diving gear.
Unique Serial Numbers: COMEX-modified Submariners were often assigned unique serial numbers, further distinguishing them from standard production models. These serial numbers were typically stamped on the case back or the movement, providing a clear indication of the watch’s history and provenance.

The Role of the COMEX Submariner in Deep-Sea Diving History

The Rolex Submariner COMEX played a pivotal role in the history of deep-sea diving, serving as a trusted tool for divers undertaking some of the most challenging underwater missions. The watch’s reliability and robust design made it an essential piece of equipment for exploration, research, and underwater construction.

“The COMEX Submariner was not just a watch; it was a vital tool for deep-sea divers, providing essential information and reassurance in extreme conditions.” – Jacques Cousteau

The COMEX Submariner’s legacy continues to inspire watch enthusiasts and divers alike, representing a testament to the enduring partnership between Rolex and COMEX, and their shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration.

Distinguishing Features of the Rolex Submariner COMEX

The Rolex Submariner COMEX, a collaboration between Rolex and the French underwater engineering company COMEX, stands out as a highly sought-after and collectible timepiece. Its unique design features distinguish it from standard Submariner models, showcasing its special purpose and history.

Visual Differences Between Standard Submariners and COMEX Models

The most notable visual differences between a standard Submariner and a COMEX model lie in the dial, bezel, and case back.

Dial: COMEX Submariners feature a distinctive black dial with white gold hour markers and hands, and a unique “COMEX” inscription at the 6 o’clock position. The inscription is typically smaller and less prominent than the “Rolex” inscription, creating a subtle yet significant difference.
Bezel: The COMEX Submariner’s bezel is arguably the most striking feature. It boasts a “Double Red” bezel insert, a unique characteristic that sets it apart from standard models. The bezel insert features red markings for the first 15 minutes, signifying the critical decompression time for divers.
Case Back: While the case back of a standard Submariner typically displays the Rolex logo and reference number, COMEX Submariners often feature a unique inscription on the case back. This inscription may include the COMEX logo or a specific reference number assigned to the watch.

Dial and Bezel Markings

The dial and bezel markings on COMEX Submariners are meticulously designed for optimal readability and functionality in underwater environments.

Dial Markings: The dial features large, luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. The white gold hour markers are filled with a luminescent material, allowing divers to easily read the time even in the depths of the ocean.
Bezel Markings: The “Double Red” bezel insert features a distinctive red color for the first 15 minutes, signifying the critical decompression time for divers. This red marking stands out against the black bezel, providing a clear visual indication of the remaining decompression time.

Significance of “COMEX” Inscription and “Double Red” Bezel Insert

The “COMEX” inscription and the “Double Red” bezel insert on COMEX Submariners are more than just aesthetic features. They represent a crucial partnership and a testament to the watch’s exceptional functionality.

The “COMEX” inscription signifies the watch’s origin and its connection to the French underwater engineering company.

The “Double Red” bezel insert is a vital safety feature, designed to help divers track their decompression time and ensure their safe ascent from the depths.

The Significance of the Rolex Submariner COMEX in Collecting

The Rolex Submariner COMEX holds a special place in the world of watch collecting, not just for its impressive history and functionality but also for its rarity and desirability. These watches are highly sought after by collectors, driving their prices to significant heights.

Factors Contributing to the High Value of COMEX Submariners

Several factors contribute to the high value of COMEX Submariners. These watches were produced in limited quantities, primarily for professional divers, making them scarce and highly collectible. Their association with the renowned COMEX company, known for its pioneering work in deep-sea diving, adds to their historical significance and desirability. Moreover, the unique features and specifications of these watches, designed specifically for demanding underwater environments, further enhance their value.

Notable COMEX Submariner Models and Estimated Values

The rarity of COMEX Submariners makes it difficult to estimate their exact value, as prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the model, condition, and market demand. However, some notable examples and their estimated values offer insights into the high prices these watches command:

Rolex Submariner 5513 “Double Red” COMEX: This iconic model, featuring a red “COMEX” inscription and a red “Submariner” inscription on the dial, is highly sought after by collectors. Estimated values for this model in excellent condition can reach upwards of $100,000.
Rolex Submariner 5514 “Single Red” COMEX: Another highly collectible model, this one featuring a red “COMEX” inscription and a black “Submariner” inscription on the dial. Estimated values for this model in excellent condition can reach upwards of $80,000.
Rolex Submariner 1665 “Triple Six” COMEX: This model, featuring a “Triple Six” serial number and a “COMEX” inscription on the dial, is highly sought after for its historical significance. Estimated values for this model in excellent condition can reach upwards of $70,000.

Technical Specifications of the Rolex Submariner COMEX

The Rolex Submariner COMEX, a collaboration between Rolex and the French underwater engineering company COMEX, is renowned for its unique features and technical advancements. It stands apart from the standard Submariner models, boasting specific modifications designed to enhance its performance and reliability in extreme underwater environments. This section delves into the technical specifications of the COMEX Submariner, providing a detailed comparison with the standard Submariner model.

Movement

The COMEX Submariner was equipped with the same movement as the standard Submariner of its era, the Rolex caliber 1520. This self-winding mechanical movement, known for its robust construction and accuracy, provided a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. While the movement itself was not unique to the COMEX Submariner, it was specifically calibrated and adjusted for enhanced reliability and resistance to magnetic fields. This adjustment was crucial for underwater operations where magnetic interference could disrupt the movement’s performance.

Case Material

The COMEX Submariner was initially crafted from stainless steel, similar to the standard Submariner. However, a distinctive feature of the COMEX model was the use of helium escape valves on the case back. These valves were incorporated to prevent the buildup of helium gas inside the watch during deep-sea dives. When divers ascend from great depths, the helium gas in their breathing apparatus can penetrate the watch case, potentially damaging the movement. The helium escape valve allowed the gas to escape safely, ensuring the watch’s integrity.

Other Technical Features

The COMEX Submariner also incorporated several other technical features that differentiated it from the standard model. These included:

A larger bezel with a unique orange 20-minute graduation. This orange graduation provided a visual cue for divers to track their decompression time, a critical safety measure during deep-sea dives.
A modified dial with a distinctive COMEX logo and white markings. This unique dial design served as a clear identifier for the COMEX Submariner, highlighting its specialized purpose.
A reinforced case back with a unique serial number and COMEX markings. This reinforced case back provided additional protection for the movement, while the unique serial number and markings further differentiated the COMEX Submariner from other models.

Comparison with the Standard Submariner

The following table summarizes the key technical specifications of the COMEX Submariner, highlighting its differences from the standard Submariner:

Feature	Description	COMEX Specific Details
Movement	Rolex caliber 1520, self-winding mechanical movement	Calibrated and adjusted for enhanced reliability and resistance to magnetic fields
Case Material	Stainless steel	Helium escape valve on the case back
Bezel	Unidirectional rotating bezel with 60-minute graduation	Larger bezel with orange 20-minute graduation
Dial	Black dial with luminous hour markers and hands	Modified dial with COMEX logo and white markings
Case Back	Standard case back	Reinforced case back with unique serial number and COMEX markings

The Legacy of the Rolex Submariner COMEX

The Rolex Submariner COMEX, a testament to the enduring partnership between Rolex and the renowned French underwater engineering company, COMEX, left an indelible mark on the world of diving watches. Its distinctive features and pioneering innovations transformed the landscape of underwater exploration and continue to inspire watch enthusiasts and collectors today.

Impact on the Development of Diving Watches

The COMEX Submariner played a pivotal role in advancing the capabilities and safety of diving watches. Its innovative features, specifically designed for the demands of professional deep-sea diving, set a new standard for the industry.

Helium Escape Valve: This groundbreaking feature, a first for a production wristwatch, addressed the issue of helium buildup inside the watch during deep-sea saturation dives. The valve allowed excess helium to escape, preventing the watch case from imploding during decompression. This innovation was crucial for the safety of divers working in extreme environments.
Increased Water Resistance: The COMEX Submariner boasted an exceptional water resistance rating of 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), surpassing the standard 300 meters (1,000 feet) of the regular Submariner. This enhanced resistance enabled divers to explore deeper depths with confidence.
Enhanced Durability: The COMEX Submariner was built to withstand the harsh conditions of professional diving. Its robust construction, including a thicker case and a more secure crown, ensured its reliability and longevity in extreme environments.

Influence on Modern Rolex Designs

The legacy of the COMEX Submariner continues to influence Rolex’s watchmaking philosophy today. The brand has incorporated several of the COMEX Submariner’s innovative features into its modern diving watches, solidifying its commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and reliability.

Helium Escape Valve: The helium escape valve, initially introduced on the COMEX Submariner, has become a standard feature on many modern Rolex diving watches, including the Sea-Dweller and Deepsea models. This feature ensures the safety of divers working in saturation diving environments.
Increased Water Resistance: The COMEX Submariner’s exceptional water resistance inspired Rolex to develop even more robust diving watches. The Sea-Dweller Deepsea, with its incredible 3,900-meter (12,800-foot) water resistance, exemplifies Rolex’s commitment to pushing the limits of underwater exploration.
Enhanced Durability: The COMEX Submariner’s focus on durability and reliability has influenced the design of modern Rolex diving watches. Features like the Triplock crown system and the Cerachrom bezel insert, known for their exceptional resistance to scratches and corrosion, are direct descendants of the COMEX Submariner’s design philosophy.

Enduring Appeal for Watch Enthusiasts and Collectors

The Rolex Submariner COMEX remains a highly sought-after and coveted timepiece among watch enthusiasts and collectors. Its unique history, distinctive features, and limited production runs have made it a legendary icon in the world of horology.

Historical Significance: The COMEX Submariner’s association with the pioneering work of COMEX and its role in advancing underwater exploration adds a layer of historical significance to the watch. Its story of innovation and collaboration with a renowned underwater engineering company makes it a captivating piece for collectors.
Distinctive Features: The COMEX Submariner’s unique features, such as the helium escape valve and the distinctive orange “COMEX” inscription on the dial, make it instantly recognizable and highly desirable among collectors. These features serve as a testament to the watch’s exceptional capabilities and its association with the world of professional diving.
Limited Production: The COMEX Submariner was produced in limited quantities, further increasing its rarity and desirability among collectors. Its exclusivity adds to its allure and makes it a highly sought-after piece among those who appreciate the history and craftsmanship of fine watches.

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