The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of horology, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its enduring appeal stems from a potent blend of robust functionality, timeless design, and unparalleled prestige. While subtle changes often occur between model years, understanding these nuances can be crucial for discerning buyers. This article delves into the comparisons between the 2018 and 2017 Rolex Submariner models, focusing on the key differences and helping to determine which year might be the right choice for you. We'll also address broader questions surrounding the Submariner's value, size, and overall worth.
The Inherent Difficulty of Direct Comparison: A Note on the Tudor Black Bay 58
Before diving into the 2018 versus 2017 Submariner comparison, it's important to address the initial comment regarding the Tudor Black Bay 58. The Black Bay 58, while an excellent watch in its own right and often touted as a more affordable alternative to the Submariner, occupies a different segment of the market. Comparing it directly to the Submariner 114060 (a reference often associated with the years in question) is akin to comparing a sports car to a luxury sedan; both are vehicles, but their purpose, price point, and target audience differ significantly. The smaller size and vintage-inspired design of the Black Bay 58 cater to a distinct preference. A more appropriate comparison would be the standard Black Bay against a Submariner, as both occupy a similar "sports watch" category, although still with significant differences in price and perceived prestige. This article focuses exclusively on the nuances between the 2017 and 2018 Rolex Submariner models.
Rolex Submariner 2018 vs. 2017: Subtle Differences, Significant Implications
The truth is, finding significant visual or functional differences between a 2017 and 2018 Rolex Submariner is challenging. Rolex is known for its incremental updates, often refining existing elements rather than implementing drastic overhauls. Therefore, the variations between these two years are likely to be subtle, possibly confined to minor internal adjustments or even just differences in the batch of movements used. Unless you're a seasoned collector with a keen eye for detail, you might not even notice the differences.
However, potential variations could include:
* Movement Calibration: Rolex continually refines its movement manufacturing process. The 2018 model might feature a slightly improved caliber 3130 (the movement typically found in these models) compared to its 2017 counterpart, potentially leading to minor improvements in accuracy or power reserve. These differences would be measured in fractions of a second and hours, respectively, and wouldn't be readily apparent to the average wearer.
* Minor Dial or Hand Variations: Even subtle variations in the dial's printing or the hands' lume (luminescent material) application could exist. These are often very difficult to spot without direct side-by-side comparison and are often down to variations in manufacturing batches rather than intentional design changes.
* Serial Number: The most reliable way to distinguish between a 2017 and 2018 Submariner is by checking the serial number. Rolex's serial number system allows for precise dating of the watch.
Is a Rolex Submariner Worth It?
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