When you look at all the lists of watches that are the most famous, most iconic, have the most value, or are the most sought after, one name repeatedly makes it to the top of the list. When this famous watch fails to hit the top of the list it is normally in a close second. This watch is, by public opinion, the world’s most famous watch today. Have you got it?

The Rolex Submariner

It is not anyone’s watch that is stealing the spotlight, it is one brand of watch. Which is a good thing because it means that many more people have the opportunity to own this grand piece. 

The most famous of these watches, the one that helped start the Rolex Submariner hype, is the Rolex Submariner ref 6538. This was worn by Sean Connery in 1962 while he was playing James Bond in Dr No. The Rolex Submariner went on to be the watch of choice for several more James Bond Movies. 

What is it That Makes a Watch Famous?

When you look at the big picture you will find that there are many things that lend to a watch becoming famous. 

It starts with amazing design and ingenuity. It continues with a watch proving itself to be timeless. Then a series of other factors contribute to its legacy.

  • Celebrities who wear one make others want one.
  • Appearing in popular films increases the popularity. 
  • The many designs available.
  • The overall quality and longevity of the watch. 
  • Auctions. 

Let’s take a deeper look at how each of these factors helped the Rolex Submariner become a famous watch

Celebrities and the World’s Most Famous Watch

Back in the 1960s when Sean Connery wore a watch people noticed. Not because the watch was awesome, which it is, but because Sean Connery was one of the most handsome and popular actors of the day. His role as a James Bond, a cool kickass character who repeatedly saves the day, only made him seem that much greater. A man to aspire to. By buying the watch that he wears you feel like you are bringing yourself closer to the celebrity and all he represents. 

Sean Connery may have been among the first to bring the watch to the screen, but the Rolex Submariner can be seen on the wrists of many more celebrities. Tom Hardy, Jack Black, Mark Wahlberg, Steve McQueen, Roger Moore and Mark McGrath to name a few. 

Which Films has the Rolex Submariner Been in?

The Rolex Submariner is most famous for its part in the James Bond movies in which it played a part. 

These movies were Dr. No, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, Thunderball, and Live and Let Die. You may think it’s not that special to own a watch from a movie but consider this. What sounds more awesome? I own a watch that Sean Connery wears or I own the watch that had a saw hidden inside that James Bond used to get out of a life-threatening situation. 

It’s simply a shame that the little saw doesn’t come as standard inside the Submariners bezel. 

The Many Designs

An interesting watch may die if people don’t like the design, no matter who wears it or how cool It looks on screen. This famous watch, however, comes with many designs so people can buy the same item in a colour or look that best suits them. 

The Rolex Submariner may be classed as a gentleman’s watch, but by increasing the design choices and availability of the watch Rolex effectively doubles the number of people interested in it. This is because having colour and design choices gets the ladies involved too. 

The Overall Quality of the Most Famous Watch

This is a watch that has come close to perfection in design and quality. It is an elegant, simple and versatile watch that works exceptionally well and has a long shelf life. The Submariner can handle the most harsh and demanding of conditions and still look like a timeless and elegant piece at a romantic dinner or in an office. 

The movement includes the unfailing Paraflex shock absorbers and a Parachrom blue hairspring making this watch extremely precise. It can operate effortlessly and not fail you for many years. 

An Auction of the Most Famous Watch

Watch auctions are fun to watch. The prices of a famous watch can drive the price up to unexpected numbers. In June of 2018, a Rolex Submariner sold for $1,068,500 (approximately £901,279) making the news as the most expensive Submariner Rolex ever sold. 

Do You Have a Rolex Submariner?

Or any Rolex for that matter. Here at Martins of Glasgow, we pride ourselves in the servicing and maintenance of Rolex watches. Our experienced team can help you to keep your Rolex in pristine working condition maintaining its value over the years. 

If you need to service, repair, or restore a Rolex watch, please contact Martins of Glasgow at martin@martinsjewellers.co.uk or Gail, at gail@martinsjewellers.co.uk. Alternatively, pay us a visit at 1158 Maryhill Road, Glasgow.