Rolex Submariner Date 16610

Rolex produced the Submariner Date ref. 16610LN between 1988 and 2010. It is the final Submariner Date to have a five-digit reference number and the beloved aluminum bezel inlay. After shelving the ref. 11610, Rolex introduced the Submariner Date 116610, which was the first model to be given a ceramic bezel and "maxi case."

The ref. 16610 is the perfect Submariner for those looking for a timepiece with a vintage flair, but that still masters everyday situations. This Rolex diver has a depth rating of 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft). Like all modern steel Rolexes, the case and bracelet of the Submariner Date 16610 are made of highly corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel.

Rolex gave the ref. 16610 some subtle updates during its 22-year production period. For instance, the manufacture upgraded the luminous material from tritium to Super-LumiNova at the turn of the millennium. Around three years later, Rolex decided to do away with the drilled lugs that had made changing the bracelet much easier. The Rolex engraving on the inner bezel ring also debuted around the same time.

The Submariner also celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2003, which Rolex marked with the release of the ref. 16610LV. The LV stands for "lunette verde," French for "green bezel." This newer model comes in a maxi case featuring enlarged indices and with a green aluminum bezel. Due to its color scheme, this Rolex watch is nicknamed "Kermit."

Virtually all Rolex sport's watches have experienced a considerable increase in value, and the Submariner Date 16610 is no exception.

The Rolex Submariner Date 16610 is one of the more classic references of the popular diving watch, and not only in terms of design, but also in terms of dimensions. The watch measures 40 mm across, while the distance from lug to lug is less than 47 mm. With a lug width of 20 mm and a case thickness of approx. 12.7 mm, the 16610 cuts a fine figure on the majority of wrists. Rolex did not make any adjustments to the case or measurements at any stage during the watch's production period between 1988 and 2010.

Of course, Rolex chose to pair the case with its celebrated Oyster bracelet. This three-piece link bracelet is equipped with the famed Oyster clasp. Unlike modern Rolex Oyster bracelets, which have solid steel clasps, the clasp on the 16610 is made of sheet steel. While this material does not offer the same level of robustness as current Oyster bracelets, it makes the watch lighter on the wrist. Rolex also upgraded the bracelet end links from sheet metal to solid end links (SEL) in the year 2000.

Differences Between the Submariner Date 16610LN & 16610LV

The main differences between the 16610LN and 16610LV are found on the dial and bezel. As previously mentioned, Rolex gave the 16610LV a green bezel. This feature is the most prominent detail on the watch, and the reason it was nicknamed "Kermit." Looking closely at the dial, you'll see that this reference has larger indices compared to other models, making it a "maxi dial." In addition to the visual effect on the watch's overall look, the larger indices also increase legibility – even in the dark.

The 16610LN was in production for quite some time, meaning there are a number of different versions available on the secondary market. For example, earlier variants can have a tritium dial, drilled lugs, or folded end links. Since the 16610LV was only launched in 2003, it came with all the upgrades from the get-go: indices with Super-LumiNova, blind lugs, and solid end links.

The Submariner Date 16610 is powered by Rolex's in-house caliber 3135. This movement has been tweaked over the years; newer models boast a Parachrom hairspring and a Glucydur balance wheel. The balance operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph. The power reserve is 50 hours.

It comes as no surprise that the Submariner Date 16610 has performed excellently in terms of value retention and value development. Although market prices cooled off in mid-2022, the 16610 can still boast significant price increases. In September 2020, a new 16610LN was valued at 9,000 USD. By December 2022, it had risen to over 13,000 USD. In the same period, the Kermit appreciated from 21,000 to 25,500 USD.