3 Years On Wrist: Rolex Submariner Date 41mm 126610ln Review

     When it comes to watches, the Rolex Submariner is the quintessential Rolex watch. A landmark in many collections ever since its first introduction in 1953, the Rolex Submariner has grown to become the diver’s watch that all other diver’s watches are measured against. The Rolex Submariner is the benchmark. Not only is it the standard in the industry, it is also a symbol of status, of prestige, and of some of the highest levels of craftsmanship available on the market crafted in Rolex’s signature superlative fashion with the pursuit of perfection. As far as perfection goes, there’s really not a single flaw to speak of.  

     Milled from a solid block of highly anti-corrosive 904L steel, the newest generation of Rolex Submariner (124060 and 126610ln respectively excluding Rolesor and precious metal models) is a supremely solid piece. Sized up to 41mm from the previous generation’s 40mm, the new Submariners have been elegantly tapered with the lugs being slimmed down from the previous model’s squared off super-case and the bracelet being sized up by a millimeter, allowing for the watch to retain a modern size but also bringing back the elegant look reminiscent of the Submariners from years ago. The new Submariner is just as wearable as the 40 millimeter Subs if not more so with the introduction of the new 3230 and 3235 movements (introduced in 2017, and in the new Submariner models in 2020) in both the Submariner and Submariner Date models. These all new calibers with a new 70 hour power reserve are thinner, featuring the new patented Chronergy escapement, allowing Rolex to thin down the case, letting the watch sit flatter on your wrist while maintaining its 300 meter water resistance The Cerachrom ceramic bezel carried over from the previous generation of Submariners is scratch and fade-resistant unlike its aluminum vintage counterparts and the polished look of the ceramic reflects the light in a way that is comparable to diamonds. Between the Cerachrom ceramic bezel and the sapphire crystal used on the modern day Submariner models, these watches will look brand new for years to come. The brushed and polished finishings on the watch aid to catch the light beautifully with the brushing quality being almost pearlescent. Photos of these watches don’t do them any justice for how beautiful and striking they are in person. 

     The Submariner’s Oyster Bracelet is just as solid if not more solid than the outgoing model and the Rolex signature Glidelock extension was carried over from the previous model, allowing for a high level of adjustability that is equivalent to two full links worth of extension, allowing you to fit your watch over a dive suit, or to adjust your watch on the go without tools to compensate for your wrist swelling or contracting throughout the day. The Chromalight luminescence on the newest generation of Submariners is absolutely incredible. While not being as initially bright as the luminescence on other watches (Seiko Lumibrite, Superluminova, Tritium, etc,) the blue glow of Rolex Chromalight is highly reactive to even the smallest amount of light and glows for hours on end. The action of the 120-click unidirectional bezel on the Submariner features crisp, clean clicks with a smooth and satisfying action that conveys luxury at its finest. The knurling of the teeth around the bezel is deep and sharp, allowing for a good grip no matter how slippery your hands may be. As with all current Rolex models, each and every watch including the new Submariner includes Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer guarantee surpassing the COSC standard of + or - 4 to 6 seconds per day and maintaining no more than +2 to -2 seconds per day often being better that what is quoted for accuracy. My particular model runs about one second slow per day, well within the Rolex standard. 

     Despite being one of the hardest watches on the market to get, the Rolex Submariner is definitely worth the hype. The newest model in my honest opinion is as close to perfection as it can get and it will definitely be interesting to see how Rolex will improve the Submariner down the line. The waitlists may be long, but it is most definitely worth while for what might be the perfect watch. In full disclosure, this review was written back in 2021 when I purchased my very first Rolex. I have waited nearly three years to give my watch an in-depth review from a practical standpoint of daily use. I can wholeheartedly state that this watch has been a joy to own and my opinions regarding the Rolex Submariner Date have remained the same.