The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of dive watches and horology in general, has undergone subtle yet significant changes throughout its history. One of the most discussed aspects of this evolution is the size of the case, specifically the transition from a predominantly smaller diameter to the now-iconic (and frequently debated) 40mm and later 41mm. While a definitive answer to "When did Rolex start making 40mm?" isn't straightforward, a chronological exploration reveals a fascinating story of design evolution and market demands.
The Genesis: The Early Submariners (Pre-40mm)
The story begins in 1953 with the introduction of the first Rolex Submariner reference 6204. This pioneering dive watch, while groundbreaking for its time, sported a significantly smaller case size than what we associate with the Submariner today. Precise measurements vary slightly depending on the specific reference and manufacturing tolerances, but these early models generally measured around 36mm to 37mm in diameter. This smaller size was reflective of the prevailing watch trends of the era, and perfectly acceptable for the diving technology of the time.
The 1954 Basel Fair marked a crucial moment in the Submariner's history, showcasing the watch to a wider international audience. This event solidified the watch's place in the market, but the size remained relatively compact. The following years witnessed incremental improvements and variations in the Submariner line, but the case size remained largely within the 36mm-38mm range.
The 1959 Shift: Crown Guards and Case Size Nuances
The year 1959 represents a pivotal point in the Submariner's evolution. This is when the iconic crown guards were added, providing enhanced protection for the winding crown. While Rolex doesn't explicitly state a simultaneous increase in case size with the addition of crown guards in official documentation, many believe the introduction of the guards subtly increased the overall diameter. The exact size increase during this period is difficult to pinpoint with certainty due to variations in manufacturing and measurement techniques, but it is highly likely that some models started edging closer to the 40mm mark. This period marks the beginning of the gradual increase in case size that would ultimately lead to the 40mm and beyond.
The Road to 40mm: Gradual Evolution, Not a Sudden Leap
Therefore, there's no single year where Rolex suddenly declared, "We're making 40mm Submariners now!" Instead, the transition to a larger case size was a gradual process, influenced by several factors:
* Evolving Diving Technology: As diving technology advanced, so did the need for more robust and legible instruments. Larger watches offered better readability underwater and more comfortable wear with thicker diving suits.
* Changing Fashion Trends: The overall trend in watchmaking shifted towards larger case sizes, reflecting a broader aesthetic preference.
* Increased Functionality: As complications were added, or the movement size itself increased, larger cases accommodated these additions without compromising the watch's design or functionality.
These factors combined to subtly push the Submariner's size upwards over several decades. While pinpointing the exact year when the first 40mm Submariner emerged is challenging due to inconsistencies in measurement and the gradual nature of the size increase, evidence suggests that the late 1960s and early 1970s saw models consistently approaching and exceeding the 40mm mark.
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