The Rolex Submariner, a legendary dive watch, features a unidirectional rotating bezel, often referred to as a "diver's bezel." This bezel is not simply a decorative element; it's a crucial tool for divers to track their dive time, ensuring safe ascents and preventing decompression sickness. Understanding how to correctly manipulate this bezel is essential for anyone owning a Submariner, whether a seasoned diver or simply an admirer of horological excellence. This article will delve into the intricacies of using the Rolex Submariner's rotating bezel, providing a comprehensive guide for both novice and experienced users.
Understanding the Rolex Submariner Rotating Diver's Bezel
The Rolex Submariner's rotating bezel is a critical safety feature, designed to be turned only in one direction – counter-clockwise. This unidirectional rotation prevents accidental mistiming, which could have potentially dangerous consequences underwater. The bezel is typically made of highly durable ceramic (Cerachrom) in modern models, or aluminum in vintage pieces, offering exceptional scratch resistance and longevity. The most prominent feature is the luminous pip (an inverted triangle), often referred to as the "marker" or "index," which is aligned with the minute hand to monitor elapsed time.
Rolex Submariner Rotating Bezel Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
The core function of the Submariner's bezel is simple but crucial: to track elapsed time during a dive. Here’s how to use it correctly:
1. Pre-Dive Preparation: Before submerging, ensure your watch is set to the correct time. This is done by adjusting the crown (the winding knob on the side of the watch) according to the instructions provided in your watch's manual.
2. Aligning the Pip: This is the most critical step. Before starting your dive, rotate the bezel *counter-clockwise* until the luminous pip (the inverted triangle) is precisely aligned with the minute hand. This action sets the zero point for your dive timer. Take your time; accurate alignment is paramount for safety. Ensure the bezel clicks firmly into place at each increment. A poorly aligned bezel can lead to inaccurate timekeeping and potentially dangerous situations.
3. Tracking Elapsed Dive Time: As you begin your dive, the minute hand will move around the dial, indicating the passage of time. The bezel, now set as your reference point, allows you to easily monitor how much time has elapsed since the start of your dive. For example, if 20 minutes have passed, the minute hand will have moved 20 minutes ahead of the pip.
4. Decompression Stops: Experienced divers use the bezel to monitor their ascent and decompression stops. They will pre-plan their ascent time and use the bezel to track their progress, ensuring they adhere to their decompression schedule. This is a critical safety measure to avoid decompression sickness.
5. Post-Dive Reset: After your dive, carefully rotate the bezel *counter-clockwise* to realign the pip with the minute hand, resetting the bezel to its zero position. This ensures you are ready for your next dive. Never attempt to force the bezel; if it feels stiff, don't push it.
Rolex Submariner Diving Bezel: Beyond Basic Timekeeping
While the primary function of the bezel is to track dive time, its applications extend beyond simple timekeeping. Experienced divers and even those who do not dive can find the bezel useful in various scenarios:
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