rolex submariner anniversario polizia | Rolex watches military

The Rolex Submariner is an icon. Synonymous with adventure, precision, and durability, it has graced the wrists of explorers, divers, and discerning individuals alike. But beyond the standard production models lies a realm of rare and highly sought-after Submariners specifically commissioned for military and law enforcement units. Among these, the Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia, a customized Sea-Dweller variant created for the Italian State Police diving unit (Sommozzatori della Polizia di Stato), stands as a testament to Rolex's enduring connection with professional organizations and its ability to produce timepieces tailored to the most demanding operational environments.

This article delves into the fascinating world of the Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia, exploring its history, unique features, rarity, and the factors that make it a prized possession for collectors of military watches and Rolex aficionados. We'll also examine related topics, including other Rolex military watches, the broader landscape of Rolex Submariners for sale, and the phenomenon of customized Rolex military timepieces.

The Origins: Honoring the Sommozzatori della Polizia di Stato

The Sommozzatori della Polizia di Stato are an elite unit within the Italian State Police, responsible for underwater search and rescue operations, crime scene investigations in aquatic environments, and ensuring maritime security. Their work demands exceptional skills, rigorous training, and reliable equipment that can withstand the harsh conditions of the underwater world.

To commemorate the unit's dedication and service, Rolex created a limited run of Sea-Dweller watches specifically for the Sommozzatori. These watches, known as the Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia, were not commercially available and were exclusively issued to members of the unit. The exact year of production is a subject of debate among collectors, with some suggesting the late 1980s or early 1990s, while others point to a later date. Regardless, the low production numbers and limited distribution ensured their immediate collectibility.

Unique Features: Distinguishing the Anniversario Polizia

While based on the robust Sea-Dweller platform, the Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia possessed distinctive features that set it apart from standard production models:

* Limited Production Run: The most significant aspect of the Anniversario Polizia is its extreme rarity. According to available information, only 78 examples of the Sea-Dweller were produced for the Sommozzatori della Polizia di Stato. This limited production run immediately elevates the watch into the realm of highly desirable collectibles.

* Engraved Case Back: The defining characteristic of the Anniversario Polizia is the engraving on the case back. While all 78 watches were intended for the unit, only 28 of them featured an additional engraving: the individual diver's military certification number ("n° di Brevetto Militare"). This number corresponds to the diver's official documentation, further linking the watch to a specific individual and their service. The presence of this engraved number significantly increases the value and historical significance of these 28 pieces.

* Sea-Dweller Base: The choice of the Sea-Dweller as the base model was logical, given the unit's demanding underwater operations. The Sea-Dweller is known for its superior water resistance compared to the standard Submariner, thanks to its helium escape valve, which allows the watch to decompress during ascent from deep dives. This feature is crucial for professional divers who spend extended periods at significant depths.

* Standard Rolex Quality and Reliability: Beyond these specific features, the Anniversario Polizia retained the hallmarks of Rolex quality and reliability. The robust construction, precise automatic movement, and clear, legible dial ensured that the watch could withstand the rigors of underwater operations and provide accurate timekeeping.

The Allure of Rarity and Provenance

The Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia embodies two key elements that drive the world of vintage watch collecting: rarity and provenance.

* Rarity: The limited production run of 78 pieces, coupled with the fact that only 28 of those featured the individual diver's certification number, makes the Anniversario Polizia exceptionally rare. This scarcity fuels demand among collectors who seek out the most exclusive and hard-to-find timepieces.

* Provenance: The Anniversario Polizia's connection to the Sommozzatori della Polizia di Stato gives it a unique historical significance. It is a tangible link to a specific unit within a law enforcement agency, adding a layer of intrigue and historical value that is absent from standard production models. The presence of the diver's military certification number further enhances the provenance, connecting the watch to a specific individual and their service.

The Collector's Market: Seeking the Anniversario Poliziarolex submariner anniversario polizia

Finding a Rolex Submariner Anniversario Polizia for sale is a challenging endeavor. Given their rarity and historical significance, these watches rarely appear on the open market. When they do, they command significant prices, reflecting their collectibility and the demand from discerning collectors.

Factors influencing the price of an Anniversario Polizia include:

* Presence of the Military Certification Number: Watches with the engraved diver's certification number are generally valued higher than those without, due to their enhanced provenance and direct link to a specific individual.