The Rolex Submariner Comex, specifically the reference 1680, holds a mythical status within the world of horology. More than just a dive watch, it represents a powerful symbiosis between a luxury brand and a pioneering underwater exploration company, resulting in a timepiece steeped in history, technical innovation, and undeniable desirability. This article will delve into the fascinating story of the Rolex Comex 1680, exploring its origins, features, its place in the COMEX-Rolex partnership, and its current standing in the highly competitive second-hand market.
What is a Rolex Comex?
The term "Rolex Comex" refers to a series of Submariner watches specifically produced by Rolex for the Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises (COMEX), a French commercial diving company renowned for its groundbreaking work in saturation diving. COMEX pushed the boundaries of underwater exploration, and their demanding operations required exceptionally reliable and robust timepieces. Rolex, with its already established reputation for precision and durability, became the natural partner, providing specially commissioned watches to withstand the extreme pressures and conditions faced by COMEX divers. The most sought-after of these collaborations is the Rolex Submariner reference 1680, a watch that embodies this legendary partnership.
Rolex and COMEX: A Deep Dive into their Legendary Partnership
The collaboration between Rolex and COMEX wasn't merely a transaction; it was a testament to mutual respect and a shared commitment to pushing the limits of human capability. COMEX's rigorous testing environment provided Rolex with invaluable real-world data, allowing them to refine and improve their timepieces. This feedback loop led to the development of watches capable of withstanding the brutal realities of deep-sea diving, including extreme pressure, fluctuating temperatures, and prolonged exposure to saltwater.
The relationship began in the 1960s, with COMEX divers relying on Rolex watches in their increasingly ambitious underwater projects. The partnership solidified in the following decades, culminating in the production of specialized Submariner models featuring unique characteristics that distinguished them from standard production models. These distinguishing features often included specific dial markings, unique casebacks, and sometimes even specialized movements.
The Rolex Comex 1680, in particular, stands out due to its specific dial variations. While the exact configurations varied, many featured a distinctive "COMEX" marking on the dial, often in a subtle, understated manner, a testament to the understated elegance that characterized the relationship between the two entities. The presence of this marking is crucial in determining authenticity and significantly impacts the watch's value in the collector's market.
1680 Comex: Distinguishing Features and Variations
The Rolex Submariner reference 1680, even in its standard production form, is a highly collectible watch. However, the Comex variants are particularly sought after due to their rarity and historical significance. Key features to look for when identifying a genuine Rolex Comex 1680 include:
* The "COMEX" Marking: As previously mentioned, the presence of the "COMEX" marking, usually found discreetly on the dial, is the most defining characteristic. The exact placement and font can vary slightly depending on the production run.
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