The Rolex Submariner, a name synonymous with diving prowess and enduring elegance, boasts a rich history interwoven with the pioneering spirit of the French underwater engineering company, COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises). This partnership, forged in the late 1960s and extending into the 1980s, resulted in a series of highly specialized and coveted dive watches, often referred to as "COMEX" Rolexes, which remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. This article delves into the fascinating history of this collaboration, exploring the key models, their unique features, and the enduring mystique surrounding these mythical timepieces.
Rolex Comex: The History of a Mythical Watch
Rolex's collaboration with COMEX wasn't a casual affair; it was a strategic partnership born from a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration. By the late 1960s, Rolex had already established itself as a leading manufacturer of dive watches, with the Submariner (ref. 5513) representing the pinnacle of their technology. However, COMEX's demanding operational environments, involving saturation diving at extreme depths, required even more robust and reliable timekeeping instruments. This presented Rolex with a unique challenge and an unparalleled opportunity to refine its dive watch technology.
The partnership began heading into 1970, a time when Rolex's dive watch range was already quite mature. The Submariner, in its various iterations, was already a proven performer, but COMEX's specific requirements – extended periods underwater, exposure to extreme pressure, and the need for exceptional readability in low-light conditions – pushed Rolex to innovate further. This collaboration wasn't simply about supplying watches; it was about developing equipment capable of withstanding the harsh realities of professional saturation diving.
The resulting watches weren't simply modified Submariners; they represented a significant leap forward in dive watch technology, incorporating features specifically designed to meet COMEX's rigorous demands. These modifications, often subtle yet crucial, included helium escape valves (HEV), modified bezels, and unique dial markings, setting them apart from standard production models. These features weren't just aesthetic additions; they were essential for the safety and reliability of the divers using them. The partnership fostered a relationship built on mutual respect and a shared dedication to excellence, resulting in a series of legendary timepieces that continue to captivate collectors today.
Rolex Comex 5514: A Cornerstone of the Collaboration
The Rolex Submariner reference 5514, often considered the quintessential COMEX watch, is a prime example of this collaborative spirit. While not all 5514s were produced for COMEX, a significant number were commissioned, showcasing several key modifications. These included the addition of the crucial helium escape valve, essential for divers working in saturation diving environments. The HEV allowed helium gas, used in saturation diving chambers, to escape during decompression, preventing the crystal from shattering due to pressure differences. The dial markings, often featuring a distinctive COMEX inscription or a unique design, further differentiated these watches from their standard counterparts. The robust construction, water resistance, and reliable movement of the 5514 made it the perfect partner for COMEX divers pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration. The limited production numbers and the historical significance of these watches contribute to their highly sought-after status in the collector's market.
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