The Quintessential Timepiece for the One-Watch Collection, The Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is many things to many people, but it represents one of the purest expressions of engineering. The classic Submariner is a simple, time-only watch that was designed to excel at one thing: diving. Although its 300-metre depth rating may not have been tested by all of its wearers, this watch has proven its durability in pools, oceans, and even the occasional shower.

Rolex first introduced the Submariner in 1953 and has made very few changes since then. Of all the iterations, reference number 124060 stands out as a particularly excellent example. This version, with its aluminium bezel insert and drilled lugs, is the last modern Rolex to stay true to the original design.

The Submariner features a clean, legible dial with a simple black face and symmetrically applied indices. In keeping with the minimalist aesthetic, only two lines of text adorn the dial at six o'clock, denoting the Submariner name and depth rating. At 12 o'clock, you will find the Rolex crown logo – the only mention of Rolex on the watch. The deceptively simple 124060 creates a tool watch with perfect balance.

The one-watch collection is not without its flaws, as the Submariner is not a true dress watch. While the romance of having something special to wear on formal occasions is appealing, it may be difficult to justify owning a watch that would only be worn once or twice a year. Even though the Submariner is inherently a tool watch, the Oyster case with its thin lugs is smaller than the 40-millimetre size would suggest. In addition to the thin lugs, the tapered bracelet also helps create a classic silhouette. So, although not the most elegant dress watch, the Submariner will easily slide beneath a shirt cuff and make a great companion to any suit.

At the end of the day, one should wear what they enjoy. However, it is reassuring to know that the Submariner can survive the everyday bumps and bruises, withstanding scuffs and scratches that tell the story of a timepiece well-worn.

The timeless design of the Submariner makes it a worthy addition to any collection, and its ability to withstand constant adventure makes it the perfect watch for the one-watch collection.