Rolex Submariner 16610

Rolex Submariner Date 16610 – the ideal watch for everyday life

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The Rolex Sub Ref. 16610 or so-called Submariner Date 16610 was produced from 1988 to 2010. This makes it therefore the predecessor of the 116610LN. The latter gained attention with its Cerachrom bezel, a more muscular new case and larger dial and became a bestseller. So, the 16610 fell somewhat into oblivion. Too fast, as we think, because the classic, elegant look and the affordable price (used Rolex Submariner 16610 models are already available from € 7,000) are still convincing today. This makes the Rolex 16610 an ideal everyday watch or entry-level model.

Its long history also means that the Rolex 16610 has gone through numerous optical and technical updates, offering a wide range of specifications for the collector's heart. First, there is a switch from radioactive tritium to LumiNova, whose radiance makes this watch easy to read even in the dark. In 2003, Rolex removed the holes in the bridge parts that made it very easy for the wearer to replace the bracelet. In other words, all models produced before 2003 allow a high degree of variation in style, as the bracelet can be changed very quickly. Further minor corrections are the engraving of the inside of the bezel with the "Rolex" lettering and engraving of the crown on the sapphire crystal.

3 reasons to buy a Rolex Submariner 16610

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• Pre-owned the Submariner 16610 is much cheaper to buy than its successor 116610LN.


• Vintage charm of the narrower case


• High individuality thanks to small optical updates

Tech and style comparison: Rolex Submariner 16610 vs. 116610LN

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The first thing you should know when investing in a Rolex Submariner 16610 is where the technical and optical differences to the 116610LN lie. Besides the differences in size, the bezel is an important factor. Unlike the successor, the Sub 16610 can still develop a patina when the black bezel slowly turns grey. You want to avoid this? Fortunately, the aluminium bezel can also be changed at a much lower price than a Cerachrom bezel.

Like its successor, the Rolex 16610 is powered by the calibre 3135. Although the 16610 doesn't have the Parachrom spring to protect it against shocks, the calibre remains one of the best on the market. The ruby-bearing rotor minimizes the wear and tear of a normal ball bearing. As a result, the 3135 has been powering all Rolex automatic movements for three decades and has also served as the basis for the newer calibres.

Rolex Submariner 16610 and 116610LN in direct price comparison

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If you plan to purchase one of the models, you should be well aware of their differences. As you can see, you can purchase a certified pre-owned Submariner Date 16610 from about € 7,000 in our online shop, while the Rolex 116610LN costs you about € 9,500. The other crucial factor is the size. With the Supercase, the 116610LN has a much more masculine presence than the flatter and more elegant 16610. For the one whose wrist is smaller but still wants to wear the Submariner's beloved design should therefore buy a Rolex Submariner 16610.

	Rolex Submariner 16610	Rolex Submariner 116610LN
Price	Pre-owned from € 7,280	Pre-owned from € 9,500
Year of production	1988 – 2010	since 2011
Case	40 mm stainless-steel	40 mm stainless-steel, Supercase
Calibre	3135	3135 with Parachrom spiral
Bezel	Aluminium	Cerachrom