Description

Rolex Submariner 1981

The Rolex Submariner 1981 is a timeless diving watch that exemplifies Rolex’s commitment to precision, durability, and elegance. As part of the Submariner collection, which debuted in 1953, the 1981 model represents a pivotal point in its evolution, showcasing the rugged functionality required by professional divers alongside the refined aesthetic favored by collectors and enthusiasts.

With its robust construction, reliable automatic movement, and enduring design, the 1981 Submariner remains a sought-after vintage timepiece that blends tradition and innovation.

Key Features:

Case

• Material: Stainless steel, engineered for high resistance to corrosion and wear, essential for aquatic environments.
• Size: 40mm diameter, a signature dimension of the Submariner, offering a bold yet wearable presence.
• Case Back: Solid, screw-down case back to ensure water resistance and protect the movement.
• Water Resistance: Rated for 200 meters (660 feet) in earlier references (e.g., Ref. 5513) or 300 meters (1000 feet) for newer transitional models (e.g., Ref. 16800).

Bezel

• Type: Unidirectional rotating bezel, a safety feature for timing dives by preventing accidental backward adjustments.
• Material: Stainless steel with an aluminum insert, featuring a luminous pip at the zero marker for underwater visibility.
• Color: Black, offering a classic and versatile look.

Dial

• Design:
  • Matte or glossy black finish, depending on the specific reference.
• Hour Markers:
  • Luminous markers (round, rectangular, triangular) filled with tritium, ensuring legibility in low-light conditions.
• Hands:
  • Mercedes-style hour hand, sword-style minute hand, and lollipop-style seconds hand with luminescent filling.
• Text:
  • Typical inscriptions include “Rolex Oyster Perpetual,” “Submariner,” and the depth rating.
  • Tritium markings such as “T Swiss T” indicate the use of tritium lume.

Crystal

• Material:
  • Acrylic crystal for earlier references (e.g., Ref. 5513).
  • Sapphire crystal for newer transitional models (e.g., Ref. 16800), providing superior scratch resistance.
• Cyclops Lens: Present on models with a date complication to magnify the date display.

Movement

• Caliber:
  • Rolex Caliber 1520/1530 (no-date models like Ref. 5513).
  • Rolex Caliber 3035 (date models like Ref. 16800), featuring a quick-set date function.
• Type: Automatic, self-winding mechanical movement.
• Power Reserve: ~48 hours.
• Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (bph) for the Caliber 3035; ~19,800 bph for older movements.
• Certification: Chronometer-certified (COSC) for accuracy on certain references.

Bracelet

• Type: Oyster bracelet (Ref. 93150).
• Material: Stainless steel.
• Clasp: Flip-lock clasp with diver’s extension to wear over wetsuits.

Lume

• Material: Tritium-based lume, giving a warm vintage glow over time.
• Marking: “T Swiss T” or “Swiss-T<25” at the bottom of the dial.

Historical Context

The Rolex Submariner of the early 1980s marked a transitional phase in the model’s evolution. While references like the 5513 continued the tradition of no-date simplicity with acrylic crystals and classic design, newer models like the 16800 introduced modern upgrades such as sapphire crystals, increased water resistance (300m), and quick-set date functionality with the Caliber 3035 movement.

These updates brought enhanced durability and practicality, solidifying the Submariner’s reputation as a professional tool watch while maintaining its timeless appeal.

Collectibility

The 1981 Rolex Submariner is highly desirable among vintage watch collectors due to its transitional nature, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. Key factors influencing collectibility include the reference number, the originality of the parts (dial, bezel, hands), and overall condition. Models with well-preserved dials, “patinated” tritium lume, and original documentation command a premium in the vintage market.

This Rolex Submariner 1981 encapsulates the perfect fusion of utility and luxury, making it a cornerstone of any vintage Rolex collection. Its versatile design and enduring quality ensure its status as a true icon in the world of fine watches.