The Rolex Submariner from the 1960s. Just uttering those words conjures images of iconic adventurers, cutting-edge technology, and timeless style. More than just a watch, it’s a piece of history, a symbol of exploration, and for many, a significant investment. This article will delve into the captivating world of the 1960s Rolex Submariner, exploring its history, variations, factors influencing its value, and how to navigate the vintage market to potentially acquire one of these horological treasures. We'll also touch upon the broader Rolex landscape, considering where the Submariner sits within the brand's hierarchy and how its vintage value compares to other vintage models.
The Allure of the 1960s Submariner: A Perfect Storm of Design and Functionality
The 1960s were a pivotal decade for the Rolex Submariner. It was a period of refinement and innovation that cemented the watch’s status as the quintessential dive watch. Several key models emerged during this era, each with its own distinct characteristics and contributing to the Submariner's enduring legacy.
* The Reference 5512 (1959-1978): Arguably the most iconic Submariner of the decade, the 5512 introduced the crown guards, giving the watch a more robust and symmetrical appearance. This was a significant design evolution, offering increased protection for the winding crown against accidental impacts, a crucial feature for divers operating in demanding environments. The 5512 was powered by various iterations of the caliber 1530 and 1560 movements, known for their reliability and precision. The 5512 is highly sought after by collectors, with variations in dial printing, crown guard shapes ("pointed crown guards" being particularly desirable), and movement types contributing to significant price differences.
* The Reference 5513 (1962-1989): Sharing the same case and crown guards as the 5512, the 5513 was a slightly more accessible model, primarily due to its use of a non-chronometer certified movement (caliber 1520). While not chronometer-certified, the 1520 was still a robust and dependable movement. The 5513 had a longer production run than the 5512, making it somewhat more readily available, but pristine examples with original parts and documentation still command premium prices.
* The Reference 1680 (1969-1980): This marked a significant step forward for the Submariner, introducing the date function to the model. The 1680 featured a cyclops lens over the date window, a feature that remains a hallmark of many Rolex models today. It was powered by the caliber 1575 movement and offered a new level of functionality for divers and everyday wearers alike. The "Red Submariner" 1680, with its "Submariner" text printed in red on the dial, is particularly prized by collectors and represents a pinnacle of vintage Submariner desirability.
Deciphering the "Valore" (Value) of a 1960s Submariner: A Complex Equation
Determining the value of a 1960s Rolex Submariner is a complex process influenced by a multitude of factors. It's not a simple case of looking up a price list; instead, it requires careful evaluation and expert knowledge. Here's a breakdown of the key elements that contribute to the value:rolex submariner anni '60 valore
* Reference Number: As mentioned above, each reference (5512, 5513, 1680) has its own inherent value based on its production period, features, and rarity. The 5512 and Red Submariner 1680 generally command higher prices than the 5513.
* Condition: This is arguably the most crucial factor. A Submariner in excellent original condition, with minimal signs of wear and all original parts, will be significantly more valuable than one that has been heavily polished, modified, or has non-original components. The condition of the dial, hands, bezel, and case are all meticulously examined.
* Originality: Collectors highly value originality. This means that the watch retains all its original components, including the dial, hands, bezel, movement, and case. Any replacement parts, even if they are genuine Rolex parts, can negatively impact the value. "Tropical" dials, where the black dial has faded to a brown or warm hue due to UV exposure, can actually increase the value, adding to the watch's unique character.
* Dial Variations: Within each reference, there are numerous dial variations, including different fonts, printing styles, and configurations. These variations, often subtle, can significantly affect the value. For example, the "underline" dials found on some early 5512 and 5513 models are highly sought after. Dial variations often reflect changes implemented by Rolex during production runs, and these can be crucial in determining the specific year and production period of the watch.