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, this Rolex 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. The Submariner has earned its status as a legendary watch, with it today remaining as one of the most sought-after timepieces around.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$6,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Subnmariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
16610LN
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1988
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. The case shows signs of previous polishing, with no major dings or scratches visible. The bezel insert is faded with a few scratches visible along its surface. The dial luminous is slightly discolored and showing signs of aging as are the hands. There are 11 links total. 10 on the watch and a removable one on the side. The bracelet shows light notching and has light to moderate stretch.
Our Perspective
There is little doubt that the 16610 is the benchmark by which all dive watches are judged thanks to its service as the longest-running and best-known Submariner variant with 20 years of service from 1988 until 2008. I have always had one in my watch box, and it very well may be the easiest to wear of all the sport Rolexes.