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THE GREATESTWatch

OUR SELECTION · 2026

Rolex Submariner
Photo: Dr.K. / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

THE ONE WE CHOSE

Rolex Submariner

ROLEX

The diver's watch every other diver's watch is measured against.

Introduced by Rolex in 1953 as one of the first wristwatches rated waterproof to 100 metres, with a rotating bezel for timing dives. The design has stayed recognisably the same ever since.


REPUTATION · DESIGN · LONG-TERM OWNERSHIP

Why it won

  1. I

    Introduced in 1953 as one of the first diver's watches rated to 100 metres.

  2. II

    A rotating bezel and a bold, legible dial built for timing a dive.

  3. III

    A design that has barely changed in seventy years.

  4. IV

    Self-winding mechanical movement, made to be worn every day.

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FINAL

The verdict

Most watches borrow the look of a tool. This one is the tool that set the look. It is the clearest answer on this site.

THE DETAILS

MOVEMENT
Self-winding mechanical
FIRST INTRODUCED
1953
ORIGINAL WATER RESISTANCE
100 m (330 ft)
BEZEL
Rotating, for timing dives

BUY THE GREATEST

Our selection, not a measurement. Selected October 3, 2026. Last reviewed October 3, 2026. How we choose. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

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