The Rolex Submariner, an iconic diving watch synonymous with luxury, adventure, and timeless design, holds a special place in horological history. Its robust construction, legible dial, and unwavering reliability have made it a favorite among divers, adventurers, and collectors alike. Over the years, numerous variations of the Submariner have been produced, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. While the standard production models are highly sought after, it's the rare, vintage, and historically significant examples that command the highest prices at auction, pushing the boundaries of what a Rolex Submariner can be worth. This article delves into the fascinating world of the most expensive Rolex Submariners, exploring the factors that contribute to their staggering values and highlighting the stories behind these exceptional timepieces. We will examine the record-breaking sale of the white gold Submariner 1680, delve into other contenders for the title of "most expensive," and explore the broader context of the Rolex market, providing insights into the elements that drive value in this highly collectible realm.
Il Rolex Submariner Più Costoso Di Sempre: A White Gold Legend
The title of the most expensive Rolex Submariner ever sold belongs to a truly exceptional piece: a white gold Submariner 1680. This particular watch achieved legendary status in 2017 when it was auctioned by Christie's for an astounding price of approximately EUR 647,000. This sale not only set a new benchmark for Submariner values but also cemented the watch's place in horological history.
What makes this Submariner so special? Several factors contributed to its record-breaking price:rolex submariner più costoso
* Rarity: This specific model, ref. 1680, is already a desirable vintage Submariner. However, the fact that it was crafted in white gold elevates it to an entirely different level of rarity. While Rolex produced some gold Submariners, a white gold version is exceedingly uncommon, making it a true collector's item.
* Condition: The condition of the watch is paramount. A well-preserved example, with its original parts and minimal wear, will always command a higher price than one that has been heavily restored or damaged. While details on the specific condition of this particular watch at the time of auction are scarce in readily available information, it can be assumed that its excellent state contributed significantly to its value.
* Provenance: The history of a watch, also known as its provenance, can significantly impact its value. If a watch was owned by a famous person or has a documented connection to a significant historical event, it can become even more desirable to collectors. While the specific provenance of the white gold Submariner 1680 sold by Christie's is not detailed in the initial information, it's possible that its history played a role in its final price.
Il Prezzo del Rolex Submariner: Cosa Asta record per il Rolex 6538 battuto da Christie's per
While the white gold Submariner 1680 holds the record for the most expensive Submariner ever sold, other models have also fetched impressive prices at auction, demonstrating the consistently high demand for these iconic timepieces. Let's explore some other notable examples:
* Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538 "Big Crown": The "Big Crown" Submariner, reference 6538, is a highly coveted vintage model known for its oversized winding crown, which lacks crown guards. These models were produced in the late 1950s and early 1960s and are prized for their clean design and historical significance. Examples in excellent condition can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. The auction record achieved by Christie's for a 6538 (specific details on the exact price achieved by Christie's are needed to confirm its place within this specific context, but generally, these are highly valuable) underscores the desirability of this reference.
* Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513: While not always reaching the stratospheric prices of the white gold 1680 or the Big Crown 6538, the 5513 is another highly collectible vintage Submariner. Produced over a long period, from the early 1960s to the late 1980s, the 5513 offers a wide range of variations, including different dial configurations (matte, glossy, etc.) and subtle changes over its production run. Rarer variations, such as those with "underline" dials or specific early production features, can command significantly higher prices.
* Rolex Submariner Ref. 5514 COMEX: The 5514 COMEX is a particularly special Submariner produced specifically for the Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises (COMEX), a French deep-sea diving company. These watches were issued to COMEX divers and are distinguished by their COMEX markings and specific technical features. Due to their historical connection to professional diving and their limited production numbers, COMEX Submariners are highly sought after by collectors.
The Six Most Expensive Rolex Submariner Watches Sold at Auction & The Five Most Expensive Rolex Submariner Watches Sold at