The Rolex Submariner is one of the most iconic watches of all time, having gone through dozens of iterations since its release in 1953. In Reference Point: Understanding the replica Rolex Submariner, we dissect the Submariner and its sub-brands. In Understanding the Rolex Submariner, we dissected the Submariner and the subtle details that make each version unique. 
Within the broader product line, this fills a gap in the Rolex Professional line of dive watches. Rolex now offers the 40mm Yacht-Master, this new 41mm Submariner, the 42mm Yacht-Master, the 43mm Sea-Dweller, and the 44mm Deepsea (and one exception – the 37mm precious metal Yacht-Master).
This means that, in theory, you could walk into a Rolex AD and get yourself some variation of the Rolex Submariner anywhere in the 40-44mm range, with a variety of metal, dial, and bezel configurations available. Like all Rolex sports watches, this new Sub is likely hard to come by, and the idea of walking into a Rolex dealer and picking from a bunch of stock options is pure fantasy, but that’s another story entirely from Localdlish.
Just as Rolex has introduced the latest generation of Chronergy-equipped movements over the past five years, it will be interesting to see if this new approach to professional cases and bracelets makes its way into other models. Frankly, I’d be surprised if it doesn’t. Rolex doesn’t do anything in a vacuum. Will the next GMT-Master feature thinner lugs? Or will the next Explorer have a different style of Oyster bracelet?
For many people around the world, the Rolex Submariner is the platonic ideal of a “good watch”. In many cases, it’s what comes to mind when you say the word “watch”. The oft-used word “iconic” simply doesn’t do the Submariner justice, so any changes to it are a big deal. In classic Rolex fashion, the Geneva-based watchmaker has chosen to whisper rather than shout, giving the Submariner a substantial upgrade that won’t leave Sub fans screaming for the good old days.