The Legendary Rolex Submariner: Dive into Timeless Excellence at Ace Watch Company

As Houston's premier used Rolex dealer, Ace Watch Company invites you to explore the iconic Rolex Submariner—a symbol of adventure and precision since its debut. Whether you're a collector seeking vintage Rolex Submariner models or a diver needing a reliable tool watch, our certified pre-owned selection offers unparalleled value and authenticity.

A Brief History of the Rolex Submariner

The first Rolex Submariner debuted in 1954 at the Basel Fair, revolutionizing dive watches as the first wristwatch waterproof to 100 meters (330 feet). However, Rolex had been striving to waterproof their timepieces from nearly their inception in the early 1900s. Prior to the Submariner’s release, Rolex had designed the iconic Oyster case in 1926 and the self-winding Perpetual movement in 1931. Initially, Rolex watches were most popular among aristocratic women due to their delicate inner workings, deemed too fragile for the robust lifestyles and activities of gentlemen. To enter the broader timepiece market, Rolex aimed to construct a durable watch that not only kept accurate time but also offered additional capabilities and withstood the demands of recreational activities.

The inspiration for the Rolex Submariner came in the form of scuba diving, a recreational activity often attributed to the underwater scientist and Frenchman Jacques Cousteau. A Naval officer from World War II, Cousteau partnered with Émile Gagnan to design the first underwater air tank called the Aqua-Lung circa 1943. Equipped with this device, Cousteau began filming and producing documentaries from the underwater world, inspiring the public to explore this new frontier. But with new terrain came new needs: a timepiece that could withstand immersion so divers could track their dive time. Though the Oyster case was streamlined and sturdy, the crown could allow water into the inner mechanisms, bringing time to a halt.

Shortly after the development of the waterproof Blancpain Fifty Fathoms timepiece, Rolex constructed a new winding crown system called the Twinlock crown, allowing the watch to remain airtight down to 100 meters. Rather than fitting a crown winding into a tube with a gasket seal, Rolex created a mechanism consisting of two sets of O-rings that formed a watertight seal. The timepiece was a huge success and began a decade of Submariner models, each with slight improvements and modifications. In 1959, the Rolex Submariner model (Reference 5512) reached a climax of engineering and aesthetics that remained nearly identical for the next 50 years. This Submariner featured a 40 mm case, Mercedes-style hands, a bezel marked with 60 minutes, a unidirectional bezel (to prevent accidental movement underwater), and crown guards. Rolex continued to produce Reference 5512 until 1980 and a non-COSC certified version (Reference 5513) until 1989.

Created as a professional tool for divers, the Rolex Submariner quickly transcended its origins to become a cultural icon, worn by explorers like James Cameron during his Titanic expedition and featured in countless films. Over seven decades, Rolex has refined the Submariner with innovations in materials and movements, cementing its status as the ultimate divers' benchmark in the world of luxury watches.

Key Features and Current Rolex Submariner Models

The modern Rolex Submariner boasts a robust 41 mm Oystersteel case, offering water resistance up to 300 meters, unidirectional rotatable bezel for precise dive timing, and the reliable Caliber 3230 automatic movement with 70-hour power reserve. Key features include the Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert for scratch resistance, Chromalight lume for low-light visibility, and Oyster bracelet with Glidelock extension system.

• Submariner No Date (Ref. 124060): Timeless black dial, no date complication—ideal for purists. Retail: $9,100; used averages $14,000.
• Submariner Date (Ref. 126610LN): Features a date window at 3 o'clock with Cyclops magnifier. Popular for its versatility.
• Vintage Models: References like 5512 or 5513 offer collector appeal with historical patina, crown guards, and Mercedes hands.

At Ace Watch Company, we specialize in authenticated pre-owned Rolex Submariner watches, including rare vintage references, ensuring each piece meets factory standards.

Why Buy a Used Rolex Submariner in Houston?

With new Submariners facing waitlists of up to two years, a certified pre-owned model from Ace Watch Company provides immediate access without compromise. Used Rolex Submariners range from $9,000 to $18,000, often at or below retail, offering exceptional value. Our expert servicing restores them to pristine condition, backed by a 1-year buckle-to-buckle warranty—perfect for Houston's active lifestyle, from Gulf Coast dives to urban adventures.

The Investment Value of Rolex Submariner Watches

The Rolex Submariner remains a stellar investment in 2025, with pre-owned prices appreciating resiliently post-2022 peaks—reaching $18,889 for certain models. Vintage pieces associated with icons can command six figures, while stainless steel sports models like the Submariner outperform gold variants in demand. In Houston's thriving collector market, seek rare references with original box and papers for maximum returns—many have doubled in value since 2011.

Tips for Purchasing a Used Rolex Submariner

Select a reputable Houston dealer like Ace Watch Company, in business since 1997 with A+ BBB rating and 4.7 Google stars. Verify completeness (box, papers, links), condition, and warranty. Avoid unserviced pieces—our models are fully authenticated and serviced by certified watchmakers.

Ready to own a piece of history? Contact Ace Watch Company at 713-521-4444 or visit us in Houston for your certified pre-owned Rolex Submariner today!