While myths about luxury watches do exist, Rolex is undoubtedly the epitome of high-end timepieces, with watches that range from under $10,000 to over $100,000. But though they're known for being a status symbol for the super successful and ultra-wealthy, two Rolexes in particular can endure vast depths, making them invaluable for Navy SEALs, who operate in a variety of harsh environments.
The rugged water-resistant Rolex Submariner, first introduced in 1953, can be taken as far down as 1,000 feet
into the ocean while still remaining functional under the intense pressure. A special release valve protects the watch's case by releasing helium during the decompression process, while the bright Rolex face can be still seen in zero light conditions. The 2008 Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller takes watch technology even further, with the ability to withstand depths of up to 12,800 feet.
SEALS first began using the Submariner, without being prompted by the U.S. Navy, as their dive watch of choice in 1962. They also wore Submariners made by Tudor, a more budget-friendly Rolex brand. Use of the Submariner became so popular that Rolex took notice and eventually, the U.S. Navy made the ultra-resilient watch part of the SEALs standard equipment.
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SEAL Teams Moved On From Rolexes With Some Exceptions
The U.S. Navy stopped issuing the Submariner by Tudor, Rolex's sister brand, to SEAL teams in 1983. Rolex as a company was moving into a different direction with their upscale brand identity, and Navy technology advanced to the point that diving equipment could fill in the gaps. But Tudor's relationship with other groups in Naval Special Warfare, or NSW, extends far beyond the Submariner, with various custom watches created and worn over the years.
In fact, today's Navy SEAL teams typically wear anything from Tudor to Seiko, to even Casio. The Casio G-Shock in particular is considered an iconic watch for its time because it was both dependable and affordable. It even became a preferred watch for many soldiers, whether they wore it inside the wrist or normally, and was eventually the watch issued to SEALs and naval teams sent to the Middle East. But while other watches have become the norm for the modern Navy, the Rolex is very much alive and well. Some SEALs in service today still wear the watch because of its dependability, and because of its legacy with the pioneering SEAL teams that came before.
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Read the original article on SlashGear.
