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 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch, box, and papers
Est. value range
$6,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
16610
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1999
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, papers, booklet and hang tag
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring the Submariner's traditional black dial, this example's tritium hour markers and hands have retained their bright white color that stands out nicely against their dark backdrop.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The quintessential dive watch, the Submariner's 40mm construction has become synonymous with what a sports watch should look like.
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
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The case shows light surface scratches, tiny nicks to the sides, and signs of a previous polish, while the case back displays some light marks. The bezel remains well defined and the insert is clean, with only a small mark near the 7-minute marker. The dial and hands remain near mint. It is fitted with a solid-link Oyster bracelet showing surface scuffs and negligible play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 11 links, 1 of which is removable, and fits approximately a 7¼” wrist. Additionally, there is 1 link included. Comes complete with boxes, punched papers, booklets, document holder, and two hangtags.
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
