Two iconic Rolex Submariner watches with deep ties to the Titanic—one worn during real-life dives to the wreckage and the other featured in James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster film—are set to go under the hammer at Sotheby’s.
The first, a stainless steel Rolex 1680 Submariner, accompanied underwater cinematographer Alfred “Al” Giddings on over a dozen expeditions to the Titanic wreck. The second, a gold Rolex 1680 Submariner, was worn by actor Bill Paxton in the Oscar-winning film.
Estimated Values and Provenance
Sotheby’s estimates the steel Submariner will fetch between 40,000 (£30,800), while the gold version is valued at 60,000 (£46,200). Both timepieces come from Giddings’ personal collection.
Giddings, a pioneer in underwater photography, participated in seventeen Titanic dives following the wreck’s 1985 discovery. He captured the now-famous image of the ship’s bow—one of the most recognizable photographs of the sunken liner.
From Ocean Depths to Hollywood
Beyond his exploration work, Giddings co-produced Cameron’s Titanic and earned four Emmy Awards for his documentary filmmaking. His steel Rolex, submerged for countless hours during deep-sea missions, holds a unique place in horological history.
The watches will be displayed at Sotheby’s York Avenue galleries on 5 December before the auction on 6 December.
A Tribute to Adventure and History
Geoff Hess, Sotheby’s global head of watches, praised the timepieces’ extraordinary legacy:
“Al Giddings has lived a life of unparalleled adventure, and these Rolexes have been his constant companions—from the Arctic to the ocean’s deepest trenches. No other watches have endured such prolonged exposure underwater. If there’s a maritime equivalent of a moonwatch, these are it.”
He added, “Presenting these treasures to collectors is a rare honor, appealing to those who cherish history, exploration, and the spirit of discovery.”
Related topics:
- Prices finally rise for used Rolex and Patek Philippe watches
- Orkos looks to foil Rolex Rippers with Watchlock security clasp
- Rolex and Bucherer mark a new era with showroom opening in China
