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The Rolex Submariner is one of the most recognized luxury watches in the world. It originally went into production in 1953, and was first presented to the public in 1954 at the Basel watch fair.
For this photo review, I got my hands on one of my friends recent acquisitions, a pre-owned 2007 Black Bezel Submariner. This watch is probably the most copied timepiece on the market, with many replica manufacturers copying the design. Even with all the knockoffs, this classic timepiece still commands top dollar on the pre-owned market. Due in part because of its fame, high demand, and of course, the name on the dial. Another less known factor, is that Rolex generally raises its price every year. You can generally find a pre-owned stainless steel Submariner in good condition for $3,500-$4,500 with the date (a little less without a date function). A new Submariner, with a ceramic bezel, starts at about $7,000. So as you can see, just going a few years back, will literally save you thousands. And in the case of the watch that I have photographed here, the buyer actually got it less than the selling price range above. (I'll tell you the actual price he paid below.)
Submariners, and really any Rolex, are a favorite of celebrities. If that is good or bad thing, I do not know, but you can see some celebrities wearing Rolex watches here. And if you search the web, you can find more celebrities wearing a Rolex, than probably any other brand.
Quality is another factor in the legendary status of the Submariner.
First, Rolex uses 904L stainless steel instead of 316L steel. Most watch brands uses 316L surgical grade stainless steel when producing a steel case or watch. The use of 904L actually adds a significant amount to the price, and most companies cannot justify the additional cost for higher grade of steel. Rolex, however, is not most watch companies, and accordingly they use the best steel available, even if the more affordable 316L stainless steel is good enough. The main advantage of 904L over 316L is its resistance to corrosion. Rolex uses 904L steel primarily for marketing purposes, to differentiate their product, but it does technically offer additional corrosion resistance. 904L is has copper added, which greatly improves resistance to strong reducing acids, as well as chloride. 904L is non-magnetic in all conditions and has excellent weldability and formability. The austenitic structure also gives this grade excellent toughness, even down to cryogenic temperatures. 904L does have a very substantial amount of nickel and molybdenum, and this is what really adds to its cost.
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