The world of professional diving in the late 1960s and beyond witnessed a significant evolution, driven by the burgeoning offshore oil and gas industry and the increasing exploration of the ocean's depths. This era saw the rise of specialized diving organizations, demanding equipment capable of withstanding the extreme pressures and harsh conditions of their work. Among these organizations, COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises) emerged as a leader, and their collaboration with Rolex resulted in some of the most iconic and sought-after dive watches ever created. This article delves into the fascinating history and highly collectible nature of Rolex COMEX watches, exploring their specifications, significance, and the current market for these exceptional timepieces.
The Genesis of the Partnership: COMEX and Rolex
As Watchprosite correctly points out, the late 1960s saw a dramatic increase in commercial underwater operations. This necessitated the development of robust and reliable equipment, including watches capable of enduring the immense pressures of deep-sea diving. COMEX, a French underwater engineering and saturation diving company, recognized the need for a superior timekeeping instrument and sought a collaboration with a manufacturer known for its precision and durability: Rolex.
The partnership between COMEX and Rolex was not a simple commercial venture; it was a collaboration born out of a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration. Rolex, already renowned for its robust Oyster case design and highly accurate movements, saw this partnership as an opportunity to rigorously test its watches in the most demanding environment imaginable – the extreme depths of the ocean. COMEX, in turn, benefited from having access to exceptionally reliable timepieces crucial for the safety and success of their divers.
This collaboration resulted in a series of special-edition Rolex dive watches, distinct from their standard production models, incorporating features specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of COMEX's saturation diving operations. These watches became legendary, not only for their functionality but also for their rarity and historical significance.
The Distinguishing Features of Rolex COMEX Watches
Rolex COMEX watches are easily identifiable by several key features that differentiate them from standard production models. These features, born out of the rigorous testing and feedback from COMEX divers, include:
* Helium Escape Valve: One of the most prominent features is the helium escape valve, crucial for saturation diving. During saturation dives, divers spend extended periods in pressurized underwater habitats. The helium used in the breathing gas can become trapped inside the watch case during decompression, potentially causing damage. The helium escape valve allows the helium to escape safely, preventing the crystal from popping out under pressure. This valve is typically located at 9 o'clock on the case.
* Unique Dial Markings and Hands: Many COMEX watches feature unique dial markings, often including COMEX branding or special inscriptions reflecting the collaboration. The hands also often have distinct designs, further setting them apart from standard Rolex models.
* Case and Bracelet Specifications: While the underlying case design might be based on existing Rolex models, COMEX watches sometimes feature specific case back engravings or unique bracelet variations tailored to the needs of professional divers.
* Rarity and Collectibility: The limited number of watches produced for COMEX, coupled with their historical significance, makes them highly sought-after collector's items. Their rarity contributes significantly to their value in the secondary market.
Specific Models and Their Significance:
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