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Lot #1498

Rolex Submariner Date 16610

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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.

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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

THE DIAL

Featuring the Submariner's traditional black dial, this example's tritium hour markers have aged to include patina with a stunningly rich shade of creamy yellow.

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.

THE CONSTRUCTION

Presented in excellent condition, this example features tight and well-preserved end links that stay flush to the case with its lugs and case sides remaining sharp and in great condition. Furthermore, its black bezel has aged rather uniquely to sport a patina with a faded pattern from dark where it is closest to the dial to lighter where it approaches the bezel's edge.

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.

Eric Ku

Co-founder