The 1968 Rolex Submariner is a true icon of diving watches, embodying the robust functionality and timeless design that have defined the Submariner collection since its debut in 1953. By 1968, the Submariner had undergone refinements that solidified its reputation as a tool watch favored by professional divers, adventurers, and enthusiasts alike.

Design and Case

The 1968 Submariner typically features a 40mm Oyster case crafted from stainless steel, a hallmark of Rolex’s commitment to durability and corrosion resistance. The unidirectional rotating bezel, introduced earlier in the series, provides divers with a reliable means to track elapsed time underwater. The bezel insert is made of aluminum, with clear minute markings for precision and a luminous pearl at the zero mark for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The case is equipped with a screw-down crown featuring Rolex’s patented Twinlock system, ensuring water resistance to depths of 200 meters (660 feet), a standard for professional-grade diving watches of the time. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial while contributing to the vintage charm of the watch.

Dial and Hands

The dial of the 1968 Submariner is a standout feature, offering exceptional legibility and timeless aesthetics. It features a matte black finish with luminous hour markers in round, rectangular, and triangular shapes, designed for quick and easy reading under water. The hour, minute, and seconds hands, including the iconic Mercedes-style hour hand, are also filled with luminescent material for excellent readability in dark or murky environments.

Rolex’s classic text arrangement on the dial includes the “Submariner” designation and depth rating, along with the “Oyster Perpetual” and “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” text, indicating its chronometer-grade accuracy.

Movement

The 1968 Submariner is powered by the Rolex Caliber 1570, an automatic self-winding movement renowned for its reliability and precision. Certified as a Superlative Chronometer, it offers accuracy within -4/+6 seconds per day. The Caliber 1570 features a robust construction, a Breguet overcoil hairspring, and a hacking function, allowing the wearer to stop the second hand for precise time setting. With a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, it is built to endure the rigors of professional use.

Bracelet and Clasp

The Submariner is fitted with the iconic Oyster bracelet, constructed from stainless steel for durability and comfort. The three-piece link design is paired with a folding clasp featuring a diver’s extension, allowing the watch to be worn over a wetsuit.

Legacy and Appeal

The 1968 Rolex Submariner represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the model, balancing its heritage as a professional tool watch with design elements that have become universally recognized. Its rugged construction, reliable movement, and clean aesthetics make it a sought-after vintage piece among collectors and diving enthusiasts.

With its blend of functionality, durability, and timeless style, the 1968 Submariner continues to hold its place as a cornerstone of Rolex’s legendary dive watch collection.

Specifications:

General

• Model: Rolex Submariner
• Year: 1968
• Reference Numbers:
  • 5512: Chronometer-certified model with 4 lines of text on the dial
  • 5513: Non-chronometer-certified model with 2 lines of text on the dial
• Collection: Oyster Perpetual Submariner

Case

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Diameter: 40mm
• Bezel:
  • Unidirectional rotating bezel
  • Aluminum insert with minute markers and luminous pearl at the zero position
• Crystal: Domed acrylic
• Water Resistance: 200 meters (660 feet)
• Crown: Screw-down Twinlock crown

Dial

• Dial Color: Matte black
• Hour Markers: Luminous markers in round, rectangular, and triangular shapes
• Hands:
  • Mercedes-style hour hand
  • Sword-style minute hand
  • Lollipop-style seconds hand
  • All filled with luminescent material
• Text Configuration:
  • 5512: “Oyster Perpetual,” “Submariner,” “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified,” and depth rating
  • 5513: “Oyster Perpetual,” “Submariner,” and depth rating

Movement

• Caliber:
  • 5512: Rolex Caliber 1570
  • 5513: Rolex Caliber 1520
• Type: Automatic, self-winding mechanical movement
• Certification:
  • 5512: COSC-certified Superlative Chronometer
  • 5513: Not chronometer-certified
• Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
• Features:
  • Hacking seconds function (Caliber 1570)
  • Breguet overcoil hairspring for improved accuracy and durability

Bracelet

• Type: Oyster Bracelet
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Links: Three-piece solid link configuration
• Clasp: Folding clasp with diver’s extension

Additional Features

• Bezel Function: Allows tracking of dive times for underwater safety.
• Vintage Appeal: Acrylic crystal and matte dial contribute to its distinctive vintage look.
• Tool Watch Design: Built for professional divers but versatile enough for everyday wear.

The 1968 Rolex Submariner is a perfect blend of rugged performance and iconic design, making it a coveted vintage model for collectors and dive watch enthusiasts.