The Rolex Submariner has long held a mythical status among watch enthusiasts, a symbol of rugged reliability and unparalleled performance. Within the vast and varied Submariner lineage, however, certain models stand apart, elevated to legendary status by their rarity, provenance, and unique historical context. Among these coveted pieces sits the Rolex Submariner Tritium SBS, a watch steeped in maritime history and shrouded in an aura of exclusivity. This article delves into the fascinating world of this exceptionally rare timepiece, exploring its key features, historical significance, and the factors that contribute to its desirability among collectors.
The description itself – "An extremely rare stainless steel automatic wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, hack feature and military markings, made for the British Royal Navy. Signed Rolex, Oyster." – succinctly encapsulates the essence of the watch. This is not merely a Submariner; it's a Submariner with a specific, verifiable history, a direct link to a particular branch of the British armed forces. The "SBS" designation – referring to the Special Boat Service, the UK's elite naval special forces unit – elevates this watch beyond its technical specifications, imbuing it with a potent narrative and a compelling sense of heritage. The presence of military markings further solidifies its connection to operational use, hinting at the demanding conditions it likely endured.
Rolex 5517 Submariner: The Foundation of the SBS Legend
Understanding the Rolex Submariner Tritium SBS requires a contextual understanding of the Rolex 5517. This reference, produced from the late 1950s through the early 1970s, represents a crucial chapter in the Submariner's history. Often referred to as the "British Military Submariner," the 5517 was specifically supplied to the British Ministry of Defence, undergoing rigorous testing and selection to meet the exacting demands of military service. Its robust construction, exceptional water resistance, and reliable movement made it an ideal tool for divers and special forces personnel operating in challenging marine environments.
The 5517's distinctive features included a matte dial, often with luminous markers and hands, and a broad arrow marking – a symbol of British military acceptance – typically found on the dial or caseback. The use of tritium for lume, rather than radium, represents a significant safety improvement, although the characteristic creamy patina developed by tritium over time adds to the watch's aesthetic appeal and historical significance. The "sweep centre seconds" mentioned in the description refers to the smooth, continuous movement of the seconds hand, a feature enhancing the watch's practicality and elegance. The "hack feature," or the ability to stop the seconds hand by pulling out the crown, allowed for precise time synchronization, a critical function for military operations.
The Distinguishing Marks of the Tritium SBS Submariner
While many 5517s were supplied to the British military, the Submariner Tritium SBS represents a particularly rare subset. The addition of "SBS" markings, either subtly engraved on the caseback or potentially included as part of the broader military markings on the dial, denotes its specific association with the Special Boat Service. This highly selective unit's association with the watch dramatically increases its rarity and desirability. The exact methods of identification and verification of these markings vary, often requiring expert examination by seasoned Rolex collectors and watchmakers. Authenticating a genuine SBS Submariner necessitates careful scrutiny of the case, dial, hands, and movement, confirming the watch's consistent alignment with known characteristics of military-issued 5517s.
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