When purchasing a Rolex watch, buyers often focus on factors like the dial, hands, bracelet type, and bezel style. However, one crucial aspect that can significantly influence your satisfaction is the size of the watch itself. Despite the consistent and iconic aesthetics of Rolex watches, minor revisions and enhancements to the cases over the years mean that even two models with the same case diameter can wear differently on the wrist.

The Importance of Proper Fit
Just as with clothing, it’s important that your watch fits you correctly. This extends beyond just the strap or bracelet fitting around your wrist; the actual size of the watch can greatly affect the overall wearing experience. Although personal preference is paramount, finding the right size watch for your wrist is essential for a satisfying ownership experience.

When determining the right size replica Rolex for your wrist, consider several important measurements and proportions beyond the case size. Two watches with identical case diameters can feel different if they vary in thickness or lug-to-lug measurements. Additionally, protrusions from the case, such as winding crowns, chronograph pushers, lugs, and crown guards, can alter the wearing experience and should be considered when purchasing a new watch.

Case Diameter:
The diameter of a watch is its external width across the horizontal axis (from 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock). This measurement typically excludes the protrusion of the crown or crown guards. Although the listed “case size” usually refers to the diameter, it may not reflect the actual space the watch occupies on your wrist.

Case Thickness:
The height or thickness of a watch, often overshadowed by case diameter, can be crucial in finding a perfect fit. While most Rolex models are reasonably thin, thickness is especially important for comfort and wearability.

Lug-to-Lug Measurement:
The lug-to-lug measurement, or the distance from the tip of one lug to the tip of the opposite lug, significantly impacts the overall wearability of a watch. This measurement can be more indicative of how a watch will fit than the case diameter alone.

Strap and Bracelet:
The strap or bracelet width and its taper can affect the watch’s perceived size. A steeply tapered bracelet may wear smaller than one with a consistent width. The style of the bracelet, such as Rolex’s Oyster Bracelet versus the Jubilee, can also influence how large the watch feels on your wrist.

The Best Way to Choose
Ultimately, the best way to find the right watch for your wrist is to try it on in person. However, understanding and considering these measurements can significantly narrow down your search.

Understanding Industry Norms
Watch measurements are typically taken with a Vernier tool (measuring calipers) and expressed in millimeters. Case diameter is the most commonly cited measurement, but it can be misleading due to various other factors affecting the wearing experience. For instance, square or rectangular watches often wear larger than their case diameters suggest, as the diameter applies across the entire watch, not just at its widest point.

Rolex’s Case Diameter:
For Rolex watches, the case size usually corresponds to its diameter, which can be considered the watch’s width. Most Rolex watches feature round cases, making the diameter representative of the case’s widest point.

Impact of Case Shape:
The shape of the case and protrusions like winding crowns, lugs, crown guards, and chronograph pushers can drastically alter the wearing experience. For example, the Rolex Submariner ref. 116610 has the same 40mm case diameter as its predecessor (ref. 16610), but appears larger due to its thicker lugs and crown guards.

Case Thickness and Type:
The thickness or height of a watch, referring to how tall it stands on your wrist, can make a significant difference. While most clone Rolex models are thin, exceptions like the Yacht-Master II and Deepsea are thicker due to their purpose-built designs.

Lug-to-Lug Length:
Lug-to-lug length, the distance between the tips of the lugs, can vastly impact wearability. This measurement is often the most accurate representation of the overall perceived size of a watch on your wrist.

Additional Proportions:
Beyond case diameter, thickness, and lug-to-lug measurements, other dimensions like the size of the lugs and bezel style also affect the wearing experience. For instance, the Rolex Submariner ref. 124060 and its predecessor ref. 114060 feel similar on the wrist despite different case sizes due to differences in lug thickness.

Considering Bezel and Crystal Sizes
The size and style of the bezel can drastically alter the wearing experience. For example, the vintage Rolex Daytona ref. 6263 has a slightly wider black acrylic bezel than the steel bezel of the ref. 6265, giving it a larger wrist presence. Similarly, the crystal size relative to the case can influence the watch’s overall look and feel.

Straps and Bracelets:
The strap or bracelet style, width, and taper can significantly impact the perceived size of your watch. Wider straps often make a watch feel larger, but a steep taper can offset this. Bracelet styles with wider links, like the Oyster Bracelet, can seem larger than those with delicate links, like the Jubilee.

Effect of Strap Style:
Straps, especially leather or NATO straps, can affect the overall wearing experience. Leather straps typically make a watch wear smaller, while NATO straps can add bulk and make a watch wear larger.

Rolex Watch Sizes Over Time
Rolex has produced watches in various sizes over the years, with models like the Submariner and Explorer II growing in size to match consumer preferences for larger watches.

Largest Rolex Models:
Currently, the largest Rolex watches are the Deepsea Sea-Dweller and the Yacht-Master II, both with 44mm cases. These models, designed for specific purposes, highlight Rolex’s range in case sizes, from 37mm to 44mm for sports watches.

Historical Sizes:
Historically, men’s Rolex watches ranged from 33mm to 35mm in the 1950s, with modern models typically between 36mm and 42mm. However, some models, like the Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, and Yacht-Master II, feature larger cases up to 44mm.

Unisex and Women’s Rolex Watches
Technically, all Rolex replica watches are unisex, but personal preference plays a significant role in choosing a watch. Midsize Rolex watches, with case diameters between 31mm and 37mm, are versatile and suitable for both men and women.

Rolex’s Women’s Watches:
Women’s Rolex watches have also grown in size over the years. The classic Lady-Datejust size increased from 26mm to 28mm, with older models available in sizes as small as 12mm. Women’s Rolex watches now range from 24mm to 36mm, with various aesthetic options to appeal to different preferences.

When choosing the right Rolex watch, consider the various measurements and proportions that affect fit and comfort. Trying on different models and keeping these factors in mind will help you find the perfect watch for your wrist.

The Rolex Submariner isn’t a subject that typically sparks controversy. While asking a group of music, design, or fashion aficionados to name the most significant album, building, or collection of the 20th century might lead to heated debates, querying a gathering of watch experts would likely yield a unanimous response: the Rolex Submariner.

Since its inception in 1954, the Rolex Submariner (affectionately known as the “Sub” among collectors) has transcended its origins as a mere diving instrument to become the epitome of luxury tool watches, embodying the quintessential desk diver. Striking a harmonious balance between being a proficient diving companion (it was the pioneer in dive watches rated to 100 meters) and a symbol of style (offered in solid gold since 1969), the Submariner has undeniably cemented its position as one of the most coveted horological treasures over the past seven decades.

This revered status is no coincidence. The Rolex Submariner boasts a plethora of premium features, including a 904L stainless steel (also known as Oystersteel) case, Chromalight luminescence, and a Cerachrom bezel (a superior version of ceramic). Furthermore, it has been continually enhanced over the years with ingenious improvements such as the user-friendly Glidelock bracelet and a variety of vibrant dials and bezels, in addition to iterations in gold and two-tone (known as Rolesor). However, what truly ignites the passion of watch collectors, elevating vintage Submariners to the realm of highly sought-after watches, boils down to one factor: consistency.

“During the ’60s, every watchmaker produced a diving watch, but the Submariner stands out as the ultimate icon because it has remained largely unchanged,” explains Sacha Davidoff, a vintage watch expert based in Geneva. “It’s akin to the Porsche 911: the core design remains constant, but the internal mechanisms evolve.” Davidoff elucidates that incremental advancements over the years have rendered the Submariner more dependable and durable than its predecessors, yet its fundamental essence – the geometric hour markers, the “Mercedes” handset, the rotating bezel, and the Oyster bracelet – remains virtually unaltered since 1960. “This is why the Submariner holds such significance,” Davidoff asserts. “Rolex has preserved its DNA while enhancing its technological prowess.”

For individuals contemplating the acquisition of a replica Rolex Submariner, the initial decision revolves around opting for a new model or delving into the realm of vintage watches. If the former is preferred, choices include the classic Submariner model in Oystersteel without a date or the Submariner Date, offering a broader selection of metals, colors, and the distinctive Cyclops date window. However, venturing into vintage Submariners introduces a realm of complexity.

With numerous models (referred to as references in Rolex terminology) spanning decades, distinguished by nuances as subtle as the text arrangement on the dial or the design of the crown guards, navigating the world of vintage Submariners can seem as daunting as exploring the Mariana Trench, albeit with financial risks. Regardless of the path chosen, delving into the universe of Submariners entails immersing oneself in a trove of terminology and lore. Below are some of the most coveted references among collectors, along with reputable sources for acquiring them:

Rolex Submariner Ref. 124060: The quintessential choice from the current catalog, featuring a 41mm Oystersteel case, a sleek black dial, and Rolex’s latest automatic movement. For those who actively utilize their replica watches, this is an exemplary option.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610LV: Introduced in 2003 to commemorate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary, this model features a green bezel, earning it the endearing moniker “Kermit” among enthusiasts.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610LV: Following the discontinuation of the Kermit, Rolex introduced this steel Submariner with a vibrant green hue, affectionately dubbed the “Hulk.”

Rolex Submariner Ref. 116610: Unveiled in 2010, this model brought significant changes to the Submariner Date, including a ceramic bezel, Chromalight luminescence, a new movement, and a sturdier case with enlarged lugs and crown guards.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 116619LB: Marking Rolex’s 2008 centenary, this Submariner features a case and bracelet crafted from 18k white gold, adorned with a blue dial and bezel, earning it the playful nickname “Smurf.”

Rolex Submariner Ref. 6538: Produced from 1959 to 1959, this early Submariner is distinguished by its oversized winding crown and absence of crown guards. Notably, it was the watch worn by Sean Connery onscreen in iconic films like Dr. No, From Russia with Love, and Goldfinger, forever immortalizing it as the “Bond Sub.”

Rolex Submariner Ref. 168000: Dubbed the “Triple-Zero,” this Submariner introduced a case crafted from upgraded 904L steel, marking the transition between vintage and modern designs. Its limited production in the late ’80s renders it one of the most coveted modern-era Subs.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680: The debut of the first Submariner Date, produced from the late ’60s to 1980, signified the Submariner’s evolution from a utilitarian tool to a stylish desk accessory. Available in full gold and two-tone variants, certain versions, known as “Red Subs,” featuring the Submariner name in red ink on the dial, are highly sought after by collectors.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513: Ideal for those entering the realm of vintage Subs without breaking the bank, this reference, in production from 1962 to 1989, offers a more accessible entry point into the world of Submariner collecting. Notably, it was also worn by James Bond in several films, further enhancing its allure.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512: Regarded as a pivotal reference in the Submariner’s history, produced from 1959 to 1979, the ref. 5512 marked a significant milestone with its modern-sized 40mm case and introduction of crown guards. Notably, it was favored by the legendary Steve McQueen.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680/16800/168000 “Comex”: Partnering with the French underwater engineering firm Compagnie Maritime D’expertises, Rolex produced several Submariner Date references for COMEX divers from the ’70s to the ’90s, featuring the COMEX logo on the dial. While debatable in terms of aesthetic appeal, these references are among the most coveted (and expensive) Subs in existence.

Enthusiasts can embark on their journey to find the Rolex Submariner that resonates most with their preferences and aspirations, whether diving into the contemporary catalog or delving into the rich history of vintage treasures.

The truth is that most people who buy dive watches don’t use them for diving. Have a good time in the bathtub? Sure. Here is our complete guide to what you need to look for, what you should buy, any other deep and pressing questions you may have, and the best dive watches to buy to assist you in your adventure, no matter the reason you choose to enter the dive watch craze.
While dive computers have replaced dive watches in terms of functionality, dive watches were initially used by divers to measure the time spent underwater – crucial when dealing with limited supplies of oxygen tanks. Today, most diveable watches can reach a minimum depth of 200-300 meters, while others can go as deep as 20,000 feet below the surface, as exemplified by the CX Swiss military watch. The shallower end of the diving spectrum should be used for recreational scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming, while technical divers need to be more resistant.
Dive watches are only water resistant to the depth specified on the watch. If you take them more profoundly, your watches will not only be water resistant but also broken. What you can count on is that if you use your dive watch for recreational swimming, you should have no problem. Remember, most dive watches can go deeper than a person, so you should be OK in most cases.
The Submariner is Rolex’s flagship product, and the dateless variant is a favorite of purists with a cult following. Eight years later, it received a modest but essential update with a slightly larger 41mm case and a new 3230 movement with a massive 70-hour power reserve. The original replica Rolex Submariner made its debut in 1954, and this is a modern continuation of that great history.
There is no denying the impact that the specific 39mm Tudor Nouveau Vintage Diver has had on the brand. For a deep-sea diver, the all-bronze Bronze Bay may not seem like a logical choice, but it’s all about atmosphere. There’s something cool about a heavy bronze piece on your wrist that can run at depths of up to 200 meters if need be.
The fake Rolex Sea-Dweller is a watch steeped in the history of underwater adventure, developed specifically for professional divers. This fascinating 43 mm clock boasts a certified water resistance of 1,220 meters, thanks to innovative inventions such as the oyster casing and the helium relief valve. It symbolizes the next chapter in Rolex’s commitment to powerful exploration.

One of the most common questions I receive on a daily basis is how much is my vintage Rolex worth or what is the price of my watch? Since this question has been discussed in-depth on every Rolex Pro forum for years, I am not trying to undermine those conclusions with this report, but simply to add more information on how to determine the value of your vintage Rolex. How can I find out the value of my Rolex? And then, what is the best way to sell it?
The most common way to arrive at the correct pricing is by properly comparing watches. If you want to make a comparison, you first need to know exactly what you have so that you can check it against other examples known on the market for accuracy.
Once your vintage replica Rolex submariner has had its parts replaced, even if they are later original Rolex parts, its collector’s value will quickly decline. Of course, if it’s only the bezel that has been changed, you can still find period-appropriate parts on the market to replace it back to its original condition. However, it is much harder to find a correct dial, as Rolex dealers around the world perform replacements as part of the many services offered to restore water resistance and durability to your Rolex.
When people send me photos of their Rolex, what I often see is that the hands, crown, and crystal have been changed. The altered hands are immediately visible through the luminescence of the dial and hands that do not match. Underneath you can clearly see the mismatched luminescence on the dial, the hands have an almost greenish hue while the dial is more yellowish. In addition, the 24-hour hand is incorrectly mounted. This should immediately ring your alarm bells and tell you that something unoriginal has happened and that someone has repaired it incorrectly….
During the repair process, Rolex cleaned the movement, pressure tested the case, replaced the gasket, and often replaced the hands to make them shine again. Radium watches were banned after 1964, and later tritium watches lost their luster within 15 years. Therefore, before you start comparing your Rolex with other Rolexes, it is useful to double-check that all parts are original. There are hardly any stable rules when it comes to collecting Rolexes. As you delve into the world of Rolexes, you will find that there are always exceptions.
For some of the early models from the 30s and 40s, you will see references added to the case back. If you know the reference, you know what model it is. Since most replica Rolex models have small holes in the case where push pins hold the bracelet tightly to the case, it is easy to remove the bracelet and write down the Rolex serial and reference numbers by using the small pins. At the end of this report, I will summarize for you the most commonly used Rolex reference numbers.
Since Rolex is a smart company and since they have produced many Rolex models over the years, they have done a really good job from the beginning by having a system of marking the serial number on the date of production.

A large number of Rolex watches have gained amazing nicknames since their launch, and among the various names ranging from athlete to soda flavors, there are many superhero nicknames, namely Batman and the Hulk. The Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman” and the Rolex Submariner “Hulk” with its blue and black ceramic bezel insert is the most famous replica Rolex watches with nicknames, but they are two completely different models – the Submariner is the diver’s watch and the GMT-Master II is the pilot/traveler’s watch. Which one is better?
Both Rolex watches have colorful design suites and all-steel construction, but they are actually not the same in terms of function. In addition, the Submariner Hulk is often seen as rather polarizing because of its bright green dial and bezel, while the Batman is arguably more versatile due to its more tonal colors. Today, we will explore this topic further by putting Batman and Hulk head to head in an attempt to answer the question of which superhero’s Rolex sports watch reigns supreme.  
Both Batman and Hulk have 40mm stainless steel cases, rotating bezels, similar dial design with Mercedes-inspired hands, date indications, and luminescent hour-markers charts. Both come with sapphire crystals and the familiar Cyclops magnifying glass on the date window.
Of course, since these watches offer different functions, they also run on different movements. The Hulk Submariner is powered by the Caliber 3135, while the Batman GMT-Master II depends on the Caliber 3186 or the Caliber 3285, of which the newer Cal. 3285 offers a longer 70-hour power reserve. What’s more, although both models are equipped with a Triplock screw-down winding crown, the Submariner is water-resistant to 300 meters, however, the GMT-Master II is water-resistant to 100 meters.
Heading on to the strap, the Hulk watch comes with a three-link Oyster strap with a brushed finish and a Glidelock buckle that allows the diver to lengthen the strap to 20mm in 2mm increments to fit the diving suit. The first fake Rolex Batman 116710BLNR was only available on Oyster straps with polished center links; however, the Batman 126710BLNR was initially available only on five-link Jubilee straps but was later available on three-link Oyster straps as well. The Oyster clasp differs from the Hulk in that it uses the 5 mm Easylink extension system rather than the 20 mm diver’s Glidelock clasp.
However, the Hulk is a dive watch, which means its bezel can only rotate in one direction and it is graduated to 60 minutes to track immersion time. On the other hand, Batman is a GMT watch. As such, its bezel rotates in both directions and is marked with 24 hours to show the time in another time zone.