I can’t quite put my finger on why but I’ve never really been one for bi-metal watches, however, this Submariner configuration might just be the exception. As you most likely know, not too long ago we sat down with the folks from Rolex to have a look at this year’s latest incarnation of the iconic Submariner and Submariner Date. Over the last few decades very little has change and even the changes that have been made are more along the lines of evolution and not revolution, and so Rolex have kind of stuck to this winning formula. Rolex introduction of its new generation of Oyster Perpetual Submariners, also included Submariner Date that perhaps towed the loved it or hated it line: the steel and gold Submariner.
The steel and gold Submariner has been a mainstay in the Rolex line-up for a few decades now and very little has changed about it too. We’ve seen the odd and rather tasteful Serti dial here and there but it has pretty remained the same.
The new steel and gold Submariner Date reference 126613LB remains the same, albeit with a few tweaks here and there. As already mentioned previously, the entire Submariner range has been revamped and Rolex have made a few updates, some of which are quite noticeable (the new 41mm cases) but one that would perhaps go unnoticed is the new calibre 3235. That said, everything else is pretty much the same Submariner Date many have come to know and love.
This new Submariner Date features a blue Cerachrom bezel insert, with recessed numerals and diving demarcation in gold on a solid 18-carat gold bezel. This combination creates a balanced contrast between the steel and gold case and Oyster bracelet, as well as the blue sunburst dial. The centre case in crafted from a solid block of what Rolex is calling Oystersteel and is guaranteed to a depth of 300 metres (1000 feet). The case back has a finely fluted edge that is hermetically screwed down. Completing the signature look and feel of the Submariner is an 18-carat solid gold Triplock winding crown, fitted with a triple waterproofness system that screws down securely against the case and is flanked by protective crown guards.
The new 41mm Submariner Date is equipped with the in-house self-winding calibre 3235 and like all of Rolex movements, is chronometer certified and boast a power reserve of 70 hours. The calibre 3235 makes use of a blue Parachrom hairspring patented and manufactured by Rolex in an exclusive alloy, as well as a Chronergy escapement, which offers greater resistance to magnetic fields, inherently making it more accurate. As you may be well aware by now, all current Rolex movements are COSC certified but Rolex themselves carry out further testing with the movements cased and simulate daily wear, with even stricter tolerances, making sure deviation is no more than +/- 2 seconds per day. However, as I mentioned in the past, it would be interesting to see if Rolex ever develop their own certification as other watch brands have done over the years?
Keeping all this Submariner goodness fixed to your wrist is the Oyster bracelet that is crafted out of steel and 18-carat gold and equipped with a Rolex-designed and patented Oysterlock folding safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening. It also features the Rolex Glidelock extension system, designed and patented by the brand. This micro adjustment mechanism comprises a rack located under the clasp cover and a toothed sliding link that locks into the chosen notch.
The new 41mm Oystersteel Submariner Date Ref. 126613LB, will retail for £11,450. For more information on the new Oystersteel and Yellow Gold Submariner Date, visit rolex.com.
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