The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of diving watches, boasts a rich history marked by continuous innovation and refinement. Discussions surrounding the materials used in its construction, particularly the crystal, often lead to intriguing – and sometimes inaccurate – claims. One such claim revolves around the purported use of rhodium crystals in certain Submariner models. This article will delve into the history of Rolex crystal usage, focusing specifically on the Submariner line, to determine the validity of the "rhodium crystal" assertion. We'll examine the evolution of Rolex Submariner references, compare different models, and clarify the materials actually used in Rolex Submariner crystals throughout the decades.
The Rolex Submariner: A Brief History
Before diving into the specifics of crystal materials, a brief overview of the Submariner's history is essential. The first Submariner, reference 6204, debuted in 1953. This foundational model established the core design elements that would define the watch for decades to come: a robust, water-resistant case; a unidirectional rotating bezel; and exceptional legibility. The early Submariners, however, differed significantly from their modern counterparts in several respects, including the material of their crystals.
Rolex Crystal Evolution: From Acrylic to Sapphire
Early Rolex watches, including the earliest Submariners, utilized acrylic crystals. Acrylic, also known as plexiglass, was a readily available and relatively inexpensive material that offered reasonable scratch resistance and optical clarity. However, it was susceptible to scratching and more prone to cracking under impact compared to later materials. The transition to sapphire crystals marked a significant leap in durability and scratch resistance. Sapphire, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide, possesses exceptional hardness, second only to diamond on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes it highly resistant to scratching and significantly more durable than acrylic.
Rolex Submariner References and Crystal Materials
Pinpointing the exact transition dates for crystal material changes across the entire Rolex Submariner range is challenging due to the complexities of Rolex's production and the variations in specific model releases. However, a general timeline can be established:
* Early Submariners (1950s-1960s): These models, including references like 6204, 6205, 6538, and early 5512s, predominantly featured acrylic crystals.
* Transition Period (late 1960s-1970s): The shift towards sapphire crystals occurred gradually. Some later references within this period may have started incorporating sapphire, while others continued to use acrylic. Precise documentation of this transition period for every reference is scarce.
* Predominance of Sapphire (1980s-Present): By the 1980s, sapphire crystals became the standard for almost all Rolex Submariners. The superior scratch resistance and durability of sapphire made it the preferred material for a professional diving watch. While some collectors might debate minor variations in sapphire crystal treatments (e.g., anti-reflective coatings), the core material remained consistent.
Rolex Submariner Comparison: Crystal Focus
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