Rolex Submariner 41mm: First Impressions and Collector Reactions

COUNT DE MONET · 2020-09-05T04:49:47Z

Explore early collector reactions to the Rolex Submariner 41mm, including design changes, case size debates, and market observations. A must-read for Rolex enthusiasts.

COUNT DE MONET

WPS member · Rolex forum

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COUNT DE MONET's initial impressions of the then-new Rolex Submariner 41mm provide a valuable snapshot of a pivotal moment in the Submariner's evolution. His observations on the case size, bracelet changes, and the unexpected appearance of a demonstration piece offer a collector's immediate reaction to a significant update from Rolex. This thread captures the community's early thoughts on a reference that would become a staple.

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Only for demonstration and not for sale, yet. Never heard Rolex is also doing that. Lange and others do demonstration pieces, but Rolex? New case is noticeably bigger, "but" still a little square looking.

Another noticeable point is the new bracelet that is starting wider between the luggs.

I am curious to see the new green bezel sub ...

Key Points from the Discussion

Rolex's previous 'maxi case' design was a strategic move to align with the trend for larger watches without actually increasing the diameter, a design choice that has now ironically led to a diameter increase to return to traditional lug profiles.
The Submariner's incremental design changes, including the 41mm size, are likely calculated to maintain its position as a daily wear watch, distinct from the larger Sea-Dweller which caters to the bigger watch market segment.
Some collectors, after owning multiple modern Rolex sports models, found them to be too similar, leading them to explore other brands before the recent surge in hype and supply shortages.
The practice of displaying 'demonstration pieces' in boutiques, while common for some brands, is seen by some as an 'obnoxious' tactic that highlights the unavailability of new releases and drives customers to other dealers.
Despite the diameter increase to 41mm, some collectors find it difficult to visually distinguish the new Submariner from its 40mm ceramic predecessors, noting that Rolex has maintained the core aesthetic.
The new 41mm Submariner's case shape, despite the diameter increase, still appears 'square looking' and not significantly different from the previous 'maxi case' to some observers.

The Discussion

jlux

Sep 5, 2020

The case looks pretty big and the shape not really different from the "maxi" case. I am looking forward to see one in person as I am interested in the white gold version.

COUNT DE MONET

Sep 5, 2020

I think the wg blue bezel will look superb! The all blue was too blue, but with a black dial ...

ripper444

Sep 5, 2020

I have to give it to Rolex for keeping the sub looking like a sub. It’s hard to tell which is which at this point once they went ceramic. 41mm? Can’t really see it

COUNT DE MONET

Sep 5, 2020

I will pass on the black bezel 41 mm as I own a SD 43 mm, that suits my idea of a bigger Rolex still very well.

ripper444

Sep 5, 2020

I kinda let the brand go. I used to own every single modern Rolex from hulk to batman to sub and daytona. They honestly bored me after a while and having more than one from the sports range was like owning the same car in a different color! Is sold them and moved to other brands and then the whole hype and supply “shortage” started! one day i’ll get another sub but not anytime soon.

COUNT DE MONET

Sep 5, 2020

However, when I saw it on other's wrists the maxi case looked good.

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Rolex Submariner 41mm: First Impressions and Collector Reactions

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