Rolex Comex History
Rolex Comex, a collaboration between Rolex and the French commercial diving company Comex, represents a significant chapter in the history of diving watches. The partnership, which began in the 1960s, resulted in the development of specialized timepieces designed to withstand the extreme conditions of underwater exploration.
The Origins of Rolex Comex
The story of Rolex Comex begins with the rise of the commercial diving industry in the 1950s. As divers ventured deeper and for longer durations, the need for reliable timekeeping instruments became paramount. Comex, a leading commercial diving company founded in 1961, recognized this need and sought a partner to develop a watch specifically designed for professional divers. Rolex, renowned for its robust and precise timepieces, was the ideal candidate.
Key Historical Events Shaping Comex Watches
- The First Comex Watch (1967): The initial collaboration between Rolex and Comex resulted in the creation of a modified Rolex Submariner, featuring a unique black dial with white markings. This watch, known as the “Comex Submariner,” was specifically designed for the needs of commercial divers. It featured a helium escape valve, a crucial component for preventing the watch from imploding during decompression. This innovation was a significant step forward in diving watch technology.
- The Deepsea Special (1970): In 1970, Comex partnered with Rolex to create the “Deepsea Special,” a revolutionary diving watch designed to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea exploration. This watch, featuring a unique case construction and a depth rating of 1,000 meters, was specifically designed for the “Hydrocap” project, a pioneering deep-sea mission led by Comex. The Deepsea Special, a testament to the ingenuity of Rolex and Comex, pushed the boundaries of underwater exploration.
- The “Double Red” Submariner (1971): In 1971, Comex introduced the “Double Red” Submariner, a variant of the Submariner with the inscription “COMEX” and “1000 ft = 300 m” printed in red on the dial. This watch, a symbol of the close relationship between Rolex and Comex, became a coveted collector’s item. It was intended for Comex divers who were trained to use mixed gas diving techniques, which required a different depth rating compared to standard air diving.
Distinctive Features of Rolex Comex Watches
Rolex Comex watches are renowned for their unique features that set them apart from standard Rolex models. These features were specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of professional divers, reflecting their specialized use in underwater exploration and rescue operations.
Helium Escape Valve
The helium escape valve is a defining characteristic of Rolex Comex watches. This valve, located at the 9 o’clock position on the case, plays a crucial role in ensuring the watch’s integrity during deep-sea dives. During saturation diving, divers breathe a helium-oxygen mixture, which can permeate the watch case under pressure. If this helium is not released, it can build up inside the watch, causing the crystal to bulge or even shatter. The helium escape valve allows the excess helium to escape, preventing damage to the watch.
Materials and Construction
Rolex Comex watches are crafted from robust materials and built with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting their intended use in extreme environments.
- Case Materials: Comex watches often feature cases made from 904L stainless steel, a highly corrosion-resistant alloy known for its durability. This material is particularly well-suited for resisting the harsh conditions encountered during deep-sea dives.
- Crystal: The sapphire crystal used in Comex watches is renowned for its scratch resistance and clarity. This ensures optimal visibility underwater, even in challenging conditions.
- Bezel: Comex watches often feature a unidirectional bezel, which allows divers to accurately track their dive time. This bezel is typically made from a highly durable ceramic material that is resistant to scratches and fading.
Rolex Comex Models and Variations
Rolex Comex watches, renowned for their exceptional durability and underwater performance, have captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike. These specialized timepieces, crafted for professional divers, represent a testament to the enduring partnership between Rolex and the renowned underwater exploration company, Comex.
Iconic Rolex Comex Models
The Rolex Comex models encompass a range of iconic timepieces, each distinguished by its unique features and historical significance. These models, often sought after by collectors, represent the pinnacle of underwater watchmaking.
| Model | Reference Number | Production Years | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rolex Submariner 5513 “Comex” | 5513 | 1960s-1980s | Black dial, “Comex” inscription on the dial, “Fat Font” inscription on the bezel, gilt hands and markers, and a larger crown guard. |
| Rolex Submariner 1665 “Double Red” | 1665 | 1967-1980s | Red “Sea-Dweller” inscription and red “Comex” inscription on the dial, larger crown guard, and a tritium dial. |
| Rolex Sea-Dweller 1666 “Triple Six” | 1666 | 1970s-1980s | Black dial, “Sea-Dweller” inscription, “Comex” inscription on the dial, larger crown guard, and a tritium dial. |
| Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 “Single Red” | 1665 | 1970s-1980s | Red “Sea-Dweller” inscription on the dial, larger crown guard, and a tritium dial. |
| Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 “Comex” | 16600 | 1980s-1990s | Black dial, “Sea-Dweller” inscription, “Comex” inscription on the dial, larger crown guard, and a sapphire crystal. |
| Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660 “Comex” | 116660 | 2008-Present | Black dial, “Sea-Dweller Deepsea” inscription, “Comex” inscription on the dial, larger crown guard, and a sapphire crystal. |
The Legacy and Value of Rolex Comex Watches
Rolex Comex watches have achieved legendary status among collectors and enthusiasts, becoming highly sought-after and commanding substantial prices in the watch market. Their desirability stems from a unique blend of historical significance, limited production, and exceptional quality, making them a coveted piece for those seeking a piece of diving history.
The Historical Significance of Rolex Comex Watches
The collaboration between Rolex and Comex, a renowned underwater engineering company, played a crucial role in shaping the development of professional diving watches. These watches were designed and built to withstand the harsh conditions of deep-sea diving, becoming essential tools for professional divers and contributing to the advancement of underwater exploration. Their historical significance is evident in their association with pioneering diving expeditions and their role in pushing the boundaries of underwater technology.
The Limited Production and Rarity of Rolex Comex Watches
The limited production runs of Rolex Comex watches further contribute to their high desirability. These watches were specifically manufactured for Comex and distributed to a select group of professional divers. The limited availability and exclusivity of these watches have created a sense of rarity and prestige among collectors, making them highly sought-after and valuable.
The Exceptional Quality and Durability of Rolex Comex Watches
Rolex Comex watches are renowned for their exceptional quality and durability. They were built to withstand extreme pressure, temperature fluctuations, and corrosive environments. The robust construction, precision engineering, and high-quality materials used in their manufacture have ensured their reliability and longevity. Their ability to perform under demanding conditions has solidified their reputation as some of the most durable and reliable watches ever produced.
Notable Sales and Auctions of Rolex Comex Models
The high value of Rolex Comex watches is reflected in their performance at auctions and private sales. Examples of notable sales include:
- In 2022, a Rolex Submariner 5513 “Comex” with a “Double Red” dial sold for over $400,000 at a prestigious auction house.
- A Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 “Comex” with a “Fat Font” dial and “Comex” inscription on the case back fetched over $200,000 at a private sale.
- A Rolex Submariner 1680 “Comex” with a “Red” dial and “Comex” inscription on the case back sold for over $150,000 at an online auction platform.
These sales demonstrate the strong demand and high market value of Rolex Comex watches among collectors and enthusiasts. The combination of historical significance, limited production, exceptional quality, and strong market demand has made these watches a highly sought-after and valuable asset.
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