The question itself reveals a common misconception. A Rolex Submariner, when described as "stainless steel," contains virtually *no* gold. The allure and prestige associated with Rolex, particularly its Submariner models, often overshadow the distinction between stainless steel and gold versions. The significant price increase mentioned – from a couple of grand in the 1970s to $10,850 – refers to the jump in the price of *gold* Submariners, not the stainless steel variants. This article will delve into the differences between these models, clarifying the amount of gold present in each and exploring the factors contributing to their vastly different price points.
The initial statement regarding the price surge highlights a crucial point: the value proposition of a Rolex Submariner is heavily influenced by the materials used in its construction. A stainless steel Submariner, while still a highly sought-after timepiece, uses primarily stainless steel (typically 904L stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance) for its case and bracelet. There might be trace amounts of other metals used in alloys, but the gold content is negligible, practically zero for all intents and purposes. The significant price difference between a stainless steel Submariner and its gold counterpart stems entirely from the substantial amount of gold used in the latter.
Let's examine specific models to illustrate this point:
Authentic Rolex Gold Submariner Watch: The term "authentic Rolex gold Submariner watch" encompasses a range of models, all sharing one common characteristic: a significant amount of 18k gold (or sometimes higher karat) in their composition. This gold is used extensively for the case, bezel, and frequently, the bracelet. The exact weight of gold varies slightly depending on the specific model and year of production, but it represents a considerable portion of the watch's overall weight and, consequently, its price. We're not talking about gold plating here; we're talking about solid gold construction.
Rolex Submariner Date 126613LB 41mm: This model, often referred to as the "two-tone" Submariner, represents a compromise. It features a combination of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold. The bracelet is typically a mix of stainless steel and gold links, while the case and bezel incorporate both materials. The amount of gold present is significantly less than a full 18k gold Submariner, resulting in a lower price point than its all-gold counterpart, but still considerably higher than a purely stainless steel model. The "LB" designation refers to the blue bezel, a popular variation.
2020 Rolex Submariner Date 41mm: This refers to a stainless steel model. As discussed earlier, the gold content is practically nonexistent. The price of this watch, while still substantial, reflects the value of the craftsmanship, the brand recognition, and the watch's desirable features (water resistance, self-winding movement, etc.), rather than the presence of precious metals.
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