The Rolex Submariner Date 16800, particularly those delivered to the French underwater engineering and saturation diving company, COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), represent a pinnacle of both horological engineering and historical significance. These coveted timepieces, often referred to simply as "COMEX 16800s," are highly sought-after by collectors worldwide, commanding premium prices due to their rarity, provenance, and association with the daring world of professional diving. This article delves deep into the details of these exceptional watches, exploring their history, distinguishing features, and what makes a truly authentic, full-set example so desirable.
The Rolex Submariner Date 16800: A Foundation of Excellence
Before we delve into the specifics of the COMEX variant, it's crucial to understand its base model: the Rolex Submariner Date 16800. Introduced in the late 1970s, the 16800 represented a significant evolution in Rolex's iconic Submariner line. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the 16800 boasted improved water resistance, enhanced durability, and a more refined aesthetic. Key features included:
* Larger Case: Compared to earlier Submariners, the 16800 featured a slightly larger 40mm case, providing a more substantial feel on the wrist.
* Sapphire Crystal: The robust sapphire crystal offered superior scratch resistance compared to the acrylic crystals used in previous models. This was a significant upgrade for a watch intended for professional use in harsh underwater environments.
* Date Magnification: The Cyclops lens over the date window, a hallmark of the Submariner Date, further enhanced readability underwater.
* Improved Movement: The 16800 utilized the calibre 3035, a highly reliable automatic movement known for its accuracy and robustness. This movement, a workhorse of Rolex, is renowned for its longevity and ease of service.
* Tritium Lume: Early examples of the 16800 featured tritium lume, a self-luminescent material that provided excellent low-light visibility. Later production saw a transition to LumiNova. Identifying the lume type is crucial in dating a specific watch.
These improvements solidified the 16800's position as a professional diving instrument capable of withstanding the rigors of extreme conditions. However, it's the COMEX variants that truly elevate this model to legendary status.
The COMEX Connection: A Partnership Forged in the Depths
COMEX, a pioneering company in the field of commercial diving, played a crucial role in the development and testing of Rolex dive watches. Their collaboration with Rolex resulted in several special-edition Submariners, most notably those based on the 16800. These watches were not simply branded; they were rigorously tested and proven in the most demanding underwater environments imaginable. COMEX divers used these watches during saturation dives, pushing the limits of human endurance and technological innovation. This real-world testing provided invaluable feedback to Rolex, contributing to the ongoing refinement of their dive watches.
Distinguishing Features of the Rolex COMEX 16800
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