I purchased my Rolex Submariner in the US Virgin Islands in 1970 for $208, primarily for diving, but as the years have rolled on I have worn the watch all over the world as my primary and only watch, from mountain climbing, to the Arctic to jungles, savannas and deserts and blue water sailing, and even to all my everyday business activities and to black tie events. So, yes it can be an only watch. I'm now 76 years of age and starting a new career after retirement, and although I have recently bought a few new watches to explore others, I am going back to my Submariner, because it still pleases me the most, is rugged and dependable, and keeps good time. What more could I ask from an old friend? I like your channel and just subscribed. Thank you for an interesting review of my favorite watch. I hope to continue to follow your review other watches, while enjoying my trusty friend. All the best!

I never appreciated the Sub until I owned one. Then I truly got it. It is a masterful watch.

To me it's the coolest watch ever made and the only one I can't be without. The fact that my grandma introduced me to it when I was a kid is nice too!

Nice video but you never really explain why the submariner can be a persons one watch. You just talk about the history, the cultural significance and how rugged it is.

One thing about Rolex that is awesome is they have had it in mind that any of their watches can be a one watch collection. They build even their dress watches (DJ, DD, OP) to a level of toughness and water proofing that screams "my watch is ready for anything." So with Rolex it is just a matter of which is your taste, but all of them can handle a night on the town or being thrown in a pool.

I bought mine in 1994 and it was my last only watch until 2012-2013 when I decided to start a collection. It is a watch for just about every occasion and can take quite a beating too.

LOVE love love the sub, I have had 2 of them and regret selling them and now I'm looking back to getting another one. To me its the best watch in the world. So beautiful. I miss my 16610 and my 5513. I'll never sell my next one, ever,ever.

So true. My first and only watch is a 1972 Rolex 5512 Submariner. Wear it every day.

LOVE this one, Christian! I'm quite sure that this is the best nutshell video explaining the Submariner ever made.

I think that it is worth to mention the influence of the Submariner on other Rolex references. For instance, if we take a picture of a 16610 and compare it to one of a 16570, it is very easy to spot the similarities. I had the opportunity to get a Submariner; however, I decided to go for a mid 2000's Explorer II. I think the Explorer II makes the base design even more versatile. Cheers.

The Sub is my 1 watch and I love wearing it. Its history, its amazing timeless design, its resistance, I cannot get rid of it. Plus it is known to have such a great longevity, that I know my son will wear it, and maybe one of my grand-child will.

whoever does your video editing needs to stop drinking on the job.

Well said. I'm aiming to be a 3 watch guy. Already have a longines gmt automatic that everyone loves on me. Next will be the sub. Need a dress watch though. Any ideas?

awesome video and interesting idea but I do have a minor annoyance and that's the editing! it's not atrocious but you should rewatch the video before publishing because there were quite a few errors such as repeated parts and forgetting to put a picture in whem Christian says so. ik that's probably a pet peeve of mine but c'mon guys, you can do better

In 1973 I got a (1966) Rolex 5512 4 line chronograph and it has been on my wrist ever since. I didn't need James Bond or Steve McQueen to convince me it is THE MOST IMPORTANT WATCH EVER made.

Old School Submariners are BEAUTIFUL, provide multiple daily usage as a tool, and I 💖💖💖 the aesthics of a properly work-worn watch!

Congrats!!! on your video, It perfectly summarizes people who want one watch, the watch, the only one watch for any occasion of course the sub. But, what about the collectors that even though they know there are other more respectable watch brands out there, they only look for or are obsessed with ROLEX and not only that they can not wear any other brand on their wrist. People who can buy other watches and they end up buying another GMT almost the same look as they already own just because the BATGIRL is out there to get. It will be great to see a video on this type of people, me included!

I don't normally comment Christian. But I completely agree 100% Could I be a one watch guy? Maybe if I owned a late 70s 5512 with excellent pumpkin like patina and a series 19 Tropic double domed plexi front glass. Oh yeah I could then. But one of those cost more than my whole collection. My answer to this delema is a Tudor Black Bay Black. That's probably the closest I'll come. That and my Omega Speedmaster Professional Man on the Moon. between those two in my current collection they make up for my lack of cash for an excellent 5513 with perfect custard Lume. Cheers. Loving the channel. keep up the excellent work!!

The Omega Speedmaster has the same effect on me!

@Theo and Harris - Awesome video, I feel that I really fall into that category of the one high end watch in the collection will be the Submariner, and the Speedmaster Pro. The other Rolex models like the Daytona and Yacht-Master are great but the Submariner in my opinion is just timeless, versatile and really unbeatable. Great video!

What would be your 3 watch collection? And can you make a video on that?

poetic stuff, great episode!

Haha Rolex Sub no date 114060 is my only watch. I wear it at the gym, diving and at work with suit. The watch for any occasion.

Yeah, but it wasn't a NATO, it was a basic regimental (RAF?) military, fabric, ribbon strap, 16mm.

Great vid as usually. I liked "the submariner is at the same time the most iconic watch guys watch and the biggest cliche". I definitely agree. It's a pity it has become a status symbol. But I agree it's a perfect only watch.

I don't think a Submariner could be a "one watch" because it's not always practical, appropriate, or safe to wear $5 to $20k on your wrist. I think the sub is beautiful and would like to have one, but let's be real about what it is; it is no longer the tool dive watch that bad asses wear like it was in the 60s and 70s. Now it is a status symbol worn by every other guy on Wall st. and in midtown.

Christian I'm a huge Sub fan. But can you say the GMT master II also be considered a one watch collection? Considering the similar history and design to the Sub? If not, why so? Keep up the good work! Love the videos and education.

Extremely good video on every level. This is an intelligent, well -researched review that actually brings fresh insights to the crowded Submariner review space. I have to disclaim that I own and love this watch, but this video perfectly lays out the case as to why I choose to diversify my portfolio by owning a sub or two. Well written, well produced and bold. This guy, as a talent, is particularly good too. Outstanding Submariner vid. He should be working at Apple, IMHO.

Great video. Any plans on making more videos on watches and lifestyles?

It's certainly iconic. I mean, just think of the power of this design. Not only is it successful to Rolex - indeed there are companies around the world dedicated to manufacturing and selling copies (which we weirdly call homages), and others just flat replicas. Heck, there's even Swiss manufacturers that concentrate hard on building Sub copies (Steinhart). What a design.

I have a question regarding the actual beginning of the Rolex Sub versus the BP Fifty-Fathoms. My understanding is that the BP was actually in production and being sold in 1953, while the Sub, even though introduced in 1953 as a model, was not actually in production and sold until 1954. Is this correct?

Nicely explained and balanced point. Thanks Theo

Nice vid friend. My 14060m is celebrating her 10th anniversary soon. I bought it cause I was already obsessed by bond movies as a child back in the early 70's. A well-known friend of mine asked me to exchange his new 114060 with my piece. No fucking chance at all. The blue lumina and the fat hands and hour-points are such a shame.

Well said, and thank you for this discourse on the colossalness of the sub. In your experience, what is the most affordable sub with the yellowish/orange hour indicators?

As far as I know the rolex sub was first introduced in 1954 (@ Basel). In 53 was the Blancpain 50 phatoms and the Zodiac Sea Wolf.

Love the last sentence you ended! That explains all.

i love the passion for watches you have man

Awesome take on an iconic watch! Great Video!

The GMT is the new Sub. If I were to go diving I'd use a modern computer. Just as if I were to do some precise timing I wouldn't use a Daytona but a smartphone.

Well said. I live in the tropics. There is no other watch for me in my opinion but the Rolex Submariner. I Own other watches, but the Sub is the one to wear if you're going to be caught in a cyclone or a relentless rain storm.

I've heard that jaeger lecoultre watches don't hold their value as much as rolex and that they are more expensive with maintenance. Any thoughts? I do kind of like the looks of the reverso though. The rolex submariner is supposed to hold it's value fairly well i think if you buy one used in excellent condition. If you buy a sub new it seems like you'd loose a thousand dollars in value easily.

I think a Rolex 1016 will be my choice if I can only have one watch.

Great vid as usual !

Coming to the realization that the Sub could be my one watch has taken quite a few years and no small amount of mental anguish. 😏

Nice video my friend I have 3 watches But I wear my Submariner more then anything. And I agree with you the Submariner is the watch guys Rolex and it can be your ONLY watch 😊

Really hate how the newer subs have crown guards, imo they look much better without crown guards. Also, make them smaller

For watch lover, it's impossible to have one watch. For sake of this topic, i will keep my 7A48 Fishing Master as the One Watch. OK, a dress watch as well- the 8305 7000 Clover Seikomatic. Man, the hand brush of the Clover is out of the world. These are so luxurious that it's hard to find another who have them.

ROLEX Submariner has history, iconic status, legend, holds its value, most copied divers watch in the world for me. There's no substitute when comes to The mighty Submariner.

I enjoy your insights. Another good video.

really nice video christian, thank you

One watch in no way qualifies as a watch collection, and there are many watches that can fulfillingly serve as any person's one watch. Own your own style and that one watch, whatever it is, can be a part of your life story.

Christian: In most cases I agree with T&H. However, this one left me confused. I understand the rich history of Rolex and especially the Sub. Also see the relevance to Sub if one wanted one versatile robust Swiss watch with unique steel. However, a "collection" implies plural not singular, and other than history why this one piece?

It’s too big and too many people have it. Don’t get me wrong, it is a great and timeless watch.

I think because of the Submariner's impressive history people can in part be intimidated by it. It's a big wrist to fill if you will.

I have an Omega and a Breitling: I wear my 16610 circa 1996 everyday.

Yes the Rolex Submariner is an extremely iconic timepiece. In 1950's, and through the 1970s and very early 1980s, personnel of Her Majesty's Royal Navy Special Boat Service (SBS) wore Rolex Submariners. That is why the fictional character James Bond wore a Submariner in the films because he was a member of Special Boat Service before joining SIS (Mi6). Navy SEALs wore Rolex Submariners before preferring the Breitling made Chronosport Sea Quartz 30. Legendary actor Steve McQueen wore a Rolex Submariner. Many actors have owned, or still own, a Rolex Submariner including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone and Benicio del Toro. Exactly because of its dual reputation as both a status symbol and as a well-crafted, no nonsense tool watch - a man's watch.

I want one of these so badly. I’ve fallen deep into the watch world a few months ago and where as before I didn’t care for the submariner; now it is THE watch I want. I live a rugged, dirty lifestyle as a military guy and I want a watch that can come with me around the world and share in my adventures as well as accompany me to dressy events such as Ascot. Fuck! I can’t justify it but its inevitable I buy a Sub in the near future.

Hey. Your website is down!

While it is a great watch, it can be a lazy choice for a collection, or as a sole piece. It's safe, it's predictable, hence boring? I've seen this watch (ceramic model) in the corporate arena, but mainly with very junior people and or new money. I've rarely seen it in a tropical/diving setting. Mostly I see it with middle class working stiffs who aren't in the mail room, but are still quite far from the boardroom. I would safely say that a soldier who is wearing a ceramic Sub is extremely rare.

There are many occasions when a dive watch is in bad taste. The explorer I is a better choice if you only want one watch you can wear everywhere.

I like this review and watch it every time I think I need a Rolex

The main character in the Amazon series Bosch has a nice one.

I'm on the hunt for a stainless steel Rolex Sub circa 1977 . . . not really concerned about the reference #

Nice Video. No Date Sub is the basis

1962 is when Dr. No came out...

Many watches could be the ONE watch for a collection. For me, a vintage or contemporary Rolex Submariner wouldn't be the ONE watch in a collection. I think the Heuer Monaco offers something very similar, yet much more complicated and less boring. If I had one, maybe I could be a one watch guy, but tbh I'm not sure.

The Submariner- it's a status symbol, it's a tool watch. It's worn by more tools than other watch in the world... :)

Very lucky to have from my 21st birthday a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Sea-Dweller Chronograph 2000 "Great White" Mark 0. Caliber 1575 19800 BPH Model No: 1665 Year of Manufacture:- 1977 Bracelet: 93150

The Submariner can be a one-watch collection only if you never wear a suit. Otherwise it's better to go for something more thin and less sporty.

To me, the king of the one watch collection is the 36mm Rolex Explorer. Robust build and it looks as good in a suit as it does with jeans. I think the sub is too toolsy for a suit.

Daytona will always by my favourite

The Submariner is not a real hardcore dive watch. It is a leisure dive watch that looks good and can be used for diving.

Love my Sub man, truly something that will last a lifetime. Plus it looks great with my Montblanc :]

Interesting ideas, and I do see the Submariner's versatility, but I doubt it could be a dress watch like your JLC

A vintage Rolex Sub might be a watch persons watch, but you have to admit you cannot tell from seeing someone wearing a modern day sub he or she is a watch person. Speedy perhaps, Milgauss maybe, but not a Sub IMO...good video nonetheless.

Nice Video!

Do you have a bargain vintage video by any chance?

Well said.

A mechanical watch can never be your sole watch. What are you going to do when it has to be serviced?

I just have two questions, 1) Who are Theo and Harris? and 2) How come we never see them in any of these videos? OK carry on.

and for the past 70 years...

Finally some new stock!

Your videos have become a bit better. I guess it's the preparation that makes a good video sometimes.

Wish it was that easy

Cool episode.

I wonder how much the actual Submariner worn by James Bond would be worth today!??? wow imagine owning that one :)

you know you're doing something right when half of the people starting a new companies are with some sort of a homage to your product.

Tool watches are cosplay for 98% of their owners.

People say subs are for douchebags. I would love to own one, but I can't afford it. Thank you submariner, for making me a douche. Who is poor.

So it's basically the Mercedes G-Class of watches

If you want to be a one watch guy...The Rolex sub would probably be the best choice...you can tell a lot about a person wearing a Rolex sub...lucky for me I'm not a one watch guy and I'm starting to find Rolex watches predictable and boring...

I really like your opinion, subbed.

it should be ranttnh or rant_tnh not rantnh

I appreciate your horologic knowledge. But history and cultural relevance alone is not a function. I didn't really hear you explain the actual functions of the watch...so I'm not sure if you completely explained why this could be the one watch to serve all of my watch needs

One watch is NOT a collection. Geez

What do you mean Rolex submariner could be your one watch ,off course it is , Rolex Submariner Stainless Black dial and White indexes. It also suits skin colours as there is White and Black in the watch l think the colour of your skin does matter. Also the Rolex submariner looks so much better in real life ,if you can find one to try on ,Rolex have waiting list with people waiting years for a watch,Rolex is rude and out of order ,people should go get a high end Replica, Tudor or a good Homage.

Agree agree agree!!!

Lot of weird double saying editing here.

you know I could say the same thing about Omega Speedmaster moon watch.

Well said bro, well fucking said. Salute!