Introduction
Debuting in 1953 and released to the public the following year, the Rolex Submariner has undoubtedly become one of the most iconic timepieces of all time, thanks to its legendary status as Rolex's flagship dive watch. Used extensively by the British Royal Navy and professional diving operations like COMEX, the Submariner set the bar for all dive watches to follow. Featuring a genuinely timeless design that has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history, the Rolex Submariner has become the archetypal sports watch. With very few large-scale aesthetic upgrades made to it over the years except for timely advancements like introducing a date function to the collection in the late '60s, and its modern cerachrom bezels, the Submariner is seen as the prototypical dive watch thanks to its consistency. As a result, the Submariner has earned its status as a legendary watch, with it still remaining as one of the most sought-after timepieces around.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Chronometer Tag
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Self-Winding cal. 3135
Reference
16610
Bracelet
Stainless Steel Oyster bracelet
Year
Circa 1999
Condition
Near Mint
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Chronometer Tag
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Produced in 1999, this example features the highly-coveted and transitional "SWISS" only dial that was used for a brief 2 year period from 1998 until 1999 which is marked by the word "SWISS" below the 6 o'clock marker.
THE CASE
Presented in excellent condition, this example features tight and well-preserved end links that stay flush to the case. Furthermore, its lugs and case sides remain sharp and in great condition.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Overall condition is near-mint. Dial and bezel appear to be like new. Caseback retains the full sticker from the time it was originally sold. Bracelet has minor surface abrasions from light use, in particular on the buckle. There are a total of 11 bracelet links.
Our Perspective
Perhaps one of the most iconic watches ever created, the Submariner is the archetypal luxury timepiece, and the ref. 16610 is its longest-running and best-known variant with 20 years of service from 1988 until 2008.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
