OVERVIEW

These days it’s far more likely that any watch will see more desk diving than actual diving, but it’s easy to take for granted how reliable a vintage Rolex Submariner truly is. A big part of their allure and collectibility now is because they’ve stood the test of time despite having been worn as everyday tool watches by many of their previous owners. Because a vintage Sub is so coveted these days, current owners tend to baby them a bit and avoid wearing them while doing activities like golfing, skiing, or swimming. Of course, everyone’s tolerance for risk varies individually, but for me if a Rolex Submariner can’t get in the water I won’t be happy with it. I don’t care how old it is.

This 40+ year old watch will continue to be as reliable and as water resistant for another 40 years as long as it’s maintained regularly. You can’t say that about every watch, but you can definitely say that about this Rolex Sub.

CONDITION NOTES

CASE: Worn, thick & honest. Possibly lightly hand polished by a previous owner at some point or what some dealers like to call “sleeve polished” but the chamfers and shape are original and the case has never been recut.

DIAL & HANDS: Absolutely perfect dial with no blemishes. Very warm creamy lume. Excellent handset with matching patina and original lume.

MOVEMENT: Running great and in superb condition. Has been well taken care of over its lifetime.