The Rolex Submariner, a dive watch icon, has undergone several significant evolutions throughout its history. One of the most impactful changes came with the introduction of the six-digit reference numbers, marking a pivotal moment in the Submariner's design language and material choices. This era saw the arrival of the highly sought-after Maxi Dial, the redesigned Super Case, and crucially, the Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert, dramatically altering the watch's aesthetic and durability. While the case size remained at 40mm for a period, the materials and overall design signified a new chapter for this legendary timepiece. This article will delve into the specific details of the ceramic dial material used in these significant Rolex Submariners, exploring its properties, its impact on the watch's overall design, and addressing related topics such as dial replacement, identification, and variations found in other Submariner models.
The Cerachrom Revolution: Beyond the Bezel
While the Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert is the most immediately noticeable change associated with the six-digit Submariners, the implications of this material extended beyond the bezel itself. The adoption of ceramic signified Rolex’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of material science in pursuit of enhanced durability and scratch resistance. This commitment, however, didn't directly translate to the dial itself in the initial six-digit references. The dials of these early ceramic bezel Submariners, while updated with the Maxi Dial design featuring larger hour markers and hands, still primarily utilized lacquered dials. These lacquered dials, while offering a deep, rich color, were still susceptible to scratches and wear over time, unlike the incredibly resilient ceramic bezel.
The distinction is crucial: the Cerachrom ceramic was initially used for the *bezel*, not the *dial*. This is a common misconception, particularly amongst those less familiar with the nuances of Rolex Submariner evolution. The striking black ceramic bezel, however, set the stage for future innovations and fueled speculation about the potential for an all-ceramic construction.
Lacquered Dials in Six-Digit Submariners: A Closer Look
The lacquered dials found in the six-digit Submariners (references 16610 and 16613) offered a significant improvement over their predecessors in terms of legibility and aesthetic appeal. The Maxi Dial design, with its larger, more prominent hour markers and hands, enhanced readability, particularly underwater. The deep black lacquer provided a stark contrast to the luminous markers, ensuring exceptional visibility in low-light conditions. However, while the lacquer offered a superior finish compared to earlier Submariner dials, it remained a vulnerable point compared to the hard-wearing ceramic bezel.
The introduction of the Maxi Dial itself was a significant change. It altered the overall proportions of the dial, making it more visually striking and modern. The increased size and bold design of the hour markers, coupled with the broader hands, made reading the time significantly easier. This design feature remains a highly sought-after characteristic of the modern Submariner.
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