You have probably heard of the Rolex watch. Whether it is because there has been some sort of massive jewelry heist in New York that someone got busted for, because you can win one through a Facebook “like and share” campaign, or because you have signed up for a jewelry email newsletter, you simply can’t escape this beautiful watch. It is also a favorite brand of people like Michael Briese, who aims to, at some point in his life, own at least one of each of the key models. So what are these models?
The Best-Known Rolex Models According to Michael Briese
- Model 1625 – Rolex Datejust “Thunderbird”
The Thuunderbird was first released in 1956. It was originally available in 18kt yellow gold, but they also developed them in platinum, white gold, and stainless steel. The Datejust models were always very popular and, by 1962, they could even be purchased in two-ones. The Jubilee Oyster bracelet was also released, although some people preferred the leather strap. The Oyster date was released around the same time, but it was slightly smaller. The midsize Datejust was also made available, which was 20% smaller than its predecessor.
- Modell 6204 – Rolex Submariner
The Submariner is perhaps one of the most famous Rolex watches, as it is their diving watch. The company completed extensive tests, including sub-zero temperature diving and diving to 10,000 feet and beyond. The Submariner was launched in 1954 at the Basel Fair, although some say it was available since 1953. The Rolex Explorer was its model, and the name Submariner gained its patent in 1960. Different models were released several times. The New Submariner comes with a 1,000 feet depth rating and a sapphire crystal, which is scratch-resistant.
- Model 6230 – Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Not many people know that Rolex pioneered chronographs, but they did with their Cosmograph model. This was said to be the ultimate watch for the sportsman. The Daytona Beach racing community loved it in particular, which is what gave it its name. Paul Newman wore one in Winning, and this gave the unique dials the name Paul Newman.
- Model 6511 – Rolex Day-Date
This was released at the Basel Fair as a niche model with a numbered date. However, Micro-Stella balance was added to it, which made it the first “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” watch. This means that it stayed, at all times, within +3 seconds per day. In 1972, the “hack” feature was added, which meant the second hand could be stopped completely if the winding stem was fully pulled out. In so doing, it was possible to synchronize the watch with a different source. The watch was available in platinum and 18kt gold.
There are other Rolexes, many of which are adaptations of, improvements on, or predecessors of the four models mentioned above. For Michael Briese, the watches are more than an accessory or even a time-telling device. They are a way of life and a real statement.
