For many, purchasing a Rolex symbolizes the “I made it” moment in one’s life, often acquired to commemorate successes or achievement! Today we are taking a look at Rolex’s flagship model in the Submariner, specifically the reference 16610 which had an amazing 21 year run and stands as the longest reference produced in the historic lineup of watches.
For the sake of organization we are looking at 5 criteria that should provide a comprehensive overview of the watch and aid anyone who is considering adding it to their collection. Use our quick links below to help navigate;
History of the 16610
The Submariner reference 16610 was introduced in 1989 replacing its short lived predecessor in the 16800. To the untrained eye the 16610 and the 16800 are quite difficult to tell apart as they share the same proportions and overall look, however, the 16610 added a newer movement and a different steel compound for the watch case and bracelet.
The 16610 was in production for 21 years and in true Rolex fashion it was continuously tweaked and perfected until the end of its life, as a result there are many variations of the 16610 out there! Some notable changes include replacing Tritium lume with LumiNova in 1998 due to Tritium’s radioactive properties. In 2000 the Submariner was equipped with a Parachrom (para-chrome) hairspring, greatly improving the watches shock resistance. Additionally the LumiNova was replaced with Super-LumiNova and the bracelet was equipped with solid end links increasing its sturdiness. Finally, around 2003 the Sub lost its lug holes in the sides of the watch marking one of the last big changes. The watch we are looking at today is from 2006, meaning this model contains many of the updates Rolex added over the years.
In 2010 the 16610 was discontinued and replaced by the reference 116610. The new model really beefed up the watch up by adding a ceramic bezel, a thicker block shaped “super case”, a “maxi dial” with bigger indices and hands as well as brighter lume. While these changes were welcomed by many, the Submariner became a much larger feeling watch making it difficult for some to wear. The 116610 was replaced in 2020 in favor of the 126610, which sports a larger 41mm case and for the first time in 31 years, a new movement.
Case & Bracelet
The 16610 is the first Submariner to incorporate Rolex’s Oystersteel and at the risk of getting super technical, Oystersteel is similar to regular stainless steel however, it has superior corrosion resistant properties and the ability to be polished up slightly to a more refined finish. While the average eye won’t be able recognize the material upgrade, there is a sense of comfort knowing it is built to last!
The case on the 16610 is the last example of a “vintage” aesthetic Submariner, making this watch more versatile than its newer counterparts. Through the use of slimmer and shorter lugs and its aluminum bezel insert this watch has the proportions to fit almost any wrist.
Moving on to the bracelet, which wears super comfortable and sturdy on the wrist. While it is often said that Rolex makes some of the best bracelets, it took experiencing one to buy into the hype. As an added bonus the model being reviewed was produced in 2006, thus it benefits from solid end-links. This feature does a great job at securing the bracelet to the watch, while removing the annoying rattle that is present with the hollow end-link bracelet.
Finally, the clasp…while it is comfortable and visually pleasing it is also the biggest disappointment on the watch. The clasp feels slightly cheaper than the rest of the watch, as it is stamped steel rather than milled giving it a thinner and less substantial feel than the current Rolex clasp. Furthermore the clasp is feature poor, missing a quick micro-adjustment function that would come in handy on those warm summer days when the wrist swells.
All in, the 16610 case and bracelet are very nicely done and are sure to last a lifetime or two!
Dial
The 16610 has the standard Submariner black dial featuring the 4 lines of text above the 6 and the famous Rolex Coronet below the 12. The pre-maxi dial on the 16610 features smaller hands and hour markers versus the newer models, giving the dial a simple yet elegant feel. The markers are outlined in white gold giving them a nice shine when the light hits the watch just right, a perfect contrast to the Super-LumiNova filled indices which glow green in the dark. The dial is crisp, clean and iconic – there are definitely no complaints!
Movement
The Submariner 16610 features Rolex’s 3135 movement which is an absolute powerhouse! The 42 hour power reserve proved to be more than enough to get the job done day in and day out. This watch has definitely not been babied, enduring mountain biking, swimming and the dangerous world of desk diving without skipping a beat!
There is a reason the 3135 remained in the Submariner for 30+ years – this thing is built to last.
Wearability
Not only is the 16610 a strap monster with endless options to choose from but its vintage inspired case shape allows it to thrive in any setting. After months of daily wear this watch has seen it all, acting as a trusty sidekick on a variety of adventures. This watch will never go out of style since it perfectly compliments any look, from casual to professional and everything in between.
The vintage sizing is forgiving on the wrist and fly’s under the radar in comparison to its newer, flashier counterparts.
Verdict
This watch has a ton of hype and definitely lives up to it. It checks all of the boxes through its rugged case and bracelet, its robust movement and vintage sizing. There are not many wrists this watch would not look great on, no matter the use! If it wasn’t for the quirky clasp lacking micro adjustment capabilities – the watch would be perfect! The 16610 is already a classic in the Submariner lineup, so don’t hesitate adding one to the collection. The further this watch gets from the date it was discontinued, the higher the value will continue to go. The final verdict is…drumroll please….the 16610 rules!
Case: 40mm