The Rolex Submariner, a name synonymous with diving prowess and enduring elegance, boasts a rich history intertwined with the pioneering spirit of COMEX, the French underwater engineering and saturation diving company. This article focuses on a specific, highly sought-after piece: a Rolex Submariner No-Date reference 5514, COMEX issued, with a valved case, a medium number watch in the 400s, and a 4.1 million serial number, dating its production circa 1974. This watch, supplied to COMEX in 1977, represents a fascinating intersection of horological history and extreme underwater exploration. Understanding its significance requires delving into the broader context of Rolex Comex 5514 watches and the collaboration between these two titans.
Rolex Comex 5514: A Legacy Forged in the Depths
The Rolex Comex 5514 isn't just a watch; it's a testament to a unique partnership and a symbol of a bygone era of professional diving. The collaboration between Rolex and COMEX began in the late 1960s, a period of significant advancements in saturation diving techniques. COMEX, pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration, required reliable and robust timekeeping instruments capable of withstanding the extreme pressures and harsh conditions of deep-sea dives. Rolex, with its reputation for precision and durability, was the natural choice.
The resulting partnership led to the creation of several specialized watches, among the most coveted being the Rolex Submariner 5514 with the distinctive helium escape valve. This valve, a crucial feature for saturation divers, allowed helium gas to escape from the watch case during decompression, preventing the case from imploding under pressure. The 5514, with its robust construction, simple, highly legible dial, and the addition of the helium escape valve, became the tool of choice for COMEX divers. These watches weren't simply sold to COMEX; they were supplied as part of a working relationship, a testament to the trust and confidence both organizations placed in each other.
The specific watch under consideration, with its serial number in the 4.1 million range and its medium number in the 400s, further solidifies its place within this historical context. The serial number places its production around 1974, while its later delivery to COMEX in 1977 suggests it might have been part of a later batch or held in reserve before being allocated to a diver. This three-year gap highlights the logistical complexities involved in supplying specialized equipment to a company operating at the cutting edge of underwater technology.
The Origin of the COMEX Rolex ‘Sea Dweller’ Diver’s Watch
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