The Rolex Submariner 1966 is a highly sought-after vintage diving watch, embodying the timeless elegance and technical excellence of Rolex. Known for its rugged reliability and iconic design, this model played a pivotal role in solidifying Rolex’s reputation as a leader in professional dive watches.

Key Features:

1. Case and Dial:
   • Stainless steel case with a diameter of approximately 40mm, showcasing the robust yet refined aesthetic typical of Rolex’s design language.
   • Matte black dial with luminescent hour markers and hands, providing excellent readability in low-light conditions.
2. Bezel:
   • Unidirectional rotating bezel with an aluminum insert. The bezel features a 60-minute graduation, crucial for tracking dive times.
3. Movement:
   • Powered by the Rolex Caliber 1520 or 1530 automatic movement, known for its reliability and precision during the era.
4. Crystal:
   • Equipped with an acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage charm.
5. Water Resistance:
   • Originally rated for water resistance up to 200 meters (660 feet), making it suitable for recreational diving.
6. Bracelet:
   • Fitted with the iconic Rolex Oyster bracelet, known for its durability and comfort.
7. Historical Significance:
   • 1966 marked a period of refinement for the Submariner line, featuring updated lume plots and subtle design changes that appealed to both divers and collectors.
   • This model gained popularity among professional divers, adventurers, and military personnel, further cementing its reputation.

Collectibility:

The 1966 Rolex Submariner is a coveted collector’s item due to its age, classic aesthetics, and connection to Rolex’s pioneering dive watch heritage. Models in excellent condition, particularly with original components such as the dial, bezel, and bracelet, are highly prized in the vintage watch market. Variants with rare dial configurations, such as the “gilt” or “meters first” dials, command significant premiums.

The 1966 Submariner represents more than a tool watch; it is a piece of horological history that continues to inspire contemporary designs while embodying the adventurous spirit of its era.

Specification Rolex Submariner:

General Information:

• Brand: Rolex
• Model: Submariner
• Reference Numbers: Commonly associated references include 5512 (chronometer-certified) and 5513 (non-chronometer-certified).
• Year of Production: 1966

Case:

• Material: Stainless steel (316L steel typical for the era).
• Diameter: 40mm (excluding the crown).
• Thickness: Approx. 14mm.
• Lug Width: 20mm.
• Case Back: Screw-down solid stainless steel.
• Crown: Screw-down with “Twinlock” system for water resistance.

Dial:

• Color: Matte black.
• Markers:
  • Luminescent hour markers (tritium was used, typically marked with “T < 25” or similar on the dial).
  • Indexes: Round, baton, and triangular markers.
• Text Configuration:
  • Early examples feature “meters first” depth ratings (e.g., 200m = 660ft) on the dial, while later models switched to “feet first.”
  • Rolex logo and branding at 12 o’clock; Submariner depth rating at 6 o’clock.
• Hands: Mercedes-style hands with luminescent inlays.

Bezel:

• Type: Unidirectional rotating bezel.
• Insert: Aluminum with a 60-minute graduation scale.
• Marker: Luminous pip at the 12 o’clock position for underwater timing.

Crystal:

• Material: Acrylic (plexiglass).
• Shape: Domed for improved durability and aesthetics.

Movement:

• Caliber:
  • Reference 5512: Rolex Caliber 1560 or 1570 (chronometer-certified).
  • Reference 5513: Rolex Caliber 1520 (non-chronometer).
• Type: Automatic (self-winding).
• Jewels: 26 or 27, depending on the movement.
• Power Reserve: Approximately 42-48 hours.
• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (vph) for Caliber 1520; later versions increased to 19,800 vph for Caliber 1570.

Water Resistance:

• Depth Rating: 200 meters (660 feet).

Bracelet:

• Type: Oyster Bracelet (Reference 7206 or 9315, depending on production batch).
• Material: Stainless steel.
• Clasp: Fold-over clasp with micro-adjustments.

Key Identifiers of 1966 Models:

• Gilt Dials: Some earlier models still featured gilt (gold-tone) text on the dial.
• Meters First: Earlier versions in 1966 have depth ratings with meters listed before feet.
• Tritium Markings: Marked “SWISS T < 25” at the bottom of the dial, indicating tritium luminescence.

The 1966 Rolex Submariner holds significant value for collectors, especially if the watch retains original components, such as the bezel insert, dial, and hands, which can exhibit unique patina over time.