The remarkable journey of Ric Outrim’s Rolex Submariner, which endured nearly five years beneath the ocean, has come to a heartwarming conclusion. This iconic watch, discovered by Australian surfer Matt Cuddihy while snorkeling off the Queensland coast near Noosa, has returned to its rightful owner. 
In July, we shared the captivating story of Ric’s lost watch. After Matt found it while cleaning up the ocean, Ric recognized it from the inscription on the back: “R. Outrim, Presented 1971.” The watch had been submerged since it was lost in 2019. Upon hearing that it had been found, Ric expressed his overwhelming emotions: “I broke down and wept. I’m so grateful for this to be returned. It’s unbelievable.”
Ric’s attachment to the clone Rolex Submariner runs deep; it was a gift from his father, a sailor and former Royal Australian Navy member, when Ric turned 18. The watch accompanied him through significant life events, including his wedding and travels across Europe. It also served as a cherished connection to his father, who passed away in the early 2000s. “It’s finally come back home; it’s a big thing,” he reflected.
Matt shared his joy, saying he was “stoked” that Ric had reclaimed his Rolex. “It’s right back where it should be – on his wrist, ready for more adventures,” he remarked. Matt’s social media outreach to over 25,000 followers helped bring attention to the search for the watch’s owner. It was serendipity that led Ric to see the Fratello article, prompting him to reach out.
Once ownership was verified, Matt facilitated communication with Rolex for the refurbishment of the barnacle-encrusted watch. In December, Ric received it back, fully restored with original parts and even a barnacle from its ocean adventure. The watch now features a period-correct Oyster bracelet, as Ric had been using a Velcro band when it fell off.
Ric expressed his gratitude to the dedicated watchmaker at replica Rolex, who oversaw the refurbishment. “I never thought it would come back to me, but Rolex was amazing. They gave the watch special attention,” he said.
Beyond the watch’s restoration, a friendship blossomed between Ric and Matt, united by their love for the sea and surfing. “I’d like to have Matt as a friend for the rest of my life. He’s a person of very high caliber,” Ric added. 
Ric plans to take the refurbished replica Submariner back to the spot where he lost it, eager to surf with Matt once again. “Now that it’s back, I want to retrace my steps with it on my wrist,” he said. This chapter may close, but the watch’s adventures are just beginning anew.
Ric also wished to extend his gratitude to the author and the Fratello team for their role in this reunion. “Thank you for bringing this whole thing together,” he said. It’s been a privilege to witness such a touching journey, and I’m thrilled to see the watch returned to its rightful home.