Watch Disassembly Book Vol.18 Rolex Submariner (Ref.16610LV)

What do you look for when choosing a mechanical watch?

Many people would answer "design," "functionality," and "asset value." Of course, appearance and resale value are very important points, but here we will also look at the historical background of the brand and model, and minor changes over the years.

By increasing your knowledge and understanding, you will come to love watches even more and enjoy the fun of choosing one. In this column, we will provide as much knowledge as possible about mechanical watches to beginners and advanced users alike, and provide a thorough analysis and explanation to help you choose a watch.

This time, we will be focusing on the Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610LV, so be sure to read to the end.

Third Generation Submariner Date Ref.16610LV

The Submariner Date is an overwhelmingly popular Rolex diver's watch. Among them, the "Ref. 16610LV", which was born in 2003 (Y number) and was produced until around 2010 (random number), is a special model that was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. Commonly known as the "Green Sub", it stands out among all Submariners. While based on the traditional "Ref. 16610", it features a special design with a green bezel and maxi dial, making it a very popular collector's item. It has modern functions while still having the retro feel unique to a 5-digit reference, and it continues to attract strong support.

Basic specifications and manufacturing year: 2003 (Y number) to around 2010 (random number)
・Case: 40mm (904L stainless steel)
・Bezel: Unidirectional (green aluminum insert)
Windshield: Sapphire crystal Water resistance: 300m Water resistance Bracelet: 93250 (1999-2010)
Movement: Cal.3135
Frequency: 28,800 vph

①Dial

Unlike the "Ref.16610", the dial of the "Ref.16610LV" is a maxi dial.

①Maxi Dial

The maxi dial is a dial design with larger indexes and improved visibility compared to the regular Submariner. This design was also inherited by the subsequent six-digit references (Ref. 116610LN/116610LV).

②SWISS MADE (2003-2010)
The dial of the "Ref. 16610LV" has the "SWISS MADE" inscription from the beginning, and does not have tritium luminous material; instead, it is entirely made of Luminova luminous material.

In addition, dial markings are becoming increasingly diversified and are said to be broadly divided into six patterns.

◯ Mk.1 (around 2003-2004)

・Features: The dial is commonly known as "Big Swiss".
-Identification points: The spacing between the "SWISS MADE" markings at the 6 o'clock position is wide, and the space between "SWISS" and "MADE" does not fall within the 28-32 minute scale.
- Font: The letter "O" is wide and there is more space on either side of "PERPETUAL".

◯ Mk.2 (around 2003-2005)

Features: Similar to Type 1, but with some different details.
-Identification points: The 5-minute markings are extremely thick compared to the others and have some serifs.
・Font: The "O" is wide but well-defined. The space on either side of "PERPETUAL" is narrow, and the position of the "R" in "ROLEX" is what distinguishes it.

◯ Mk.3 (2004-2005)

Special Features: The final dial type has a shorter scale from 28 to 32 minutes.
-How to distinguish: If the markings every 5 minutes are very thick, it is type 2; if they are only slightly thick, it is type 3.
- Font: A font that resembles an inverted "S" in "SWISS" is used (common to types 1 to 5).

◯ Mk.4 (around 2005-2007)

Features: Sharper design than the 3rd generation, with a new crown mark.
- Identification point: The scale from 28 minutes to 32 minutes is long, and the "SWISS MADE" letters fit neatly between them.
- Font: Types 4 and 5 are very similar and difficult to distinguish.

◯ Mk.5 (around 2006-2010)

Features: Almost the same as Type 4, but with certain minor differences.
-Identification point: The position of the "Y" in the "OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED" chronometer notation is different.
- Font: A font with the "S" in "SWISS" reversed (difficult to distinguish from type 4).

◯ Mk.6 (around 2009-2010)

・Features: The only model that uses a different typeface than the first 5 models.
-Identification points: The central horizontal line of the "E" is short, and the vertical and horizontal lines of the "ft" waterproof notation do not intersect.
- Font: Instead of an inverted “Z”, a rounded “S” is used.

②Bezel

The most distinctive feature of the "Ref.16610LV" is the green bezel. This vibrant green is also Rolex's brand color, and is a special color that symbolizes the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. The bezel uses an aluminum insert, and the color of the bezel can change over time, so the color of the bezel is also important among collectors.

There are two variations of the bezel insert for the "Ref. 16610LV".

① Fat 4 (2003 Y-number to 2004 F-number first half)
-An early bezel with a thick, rounded design for the number "40".
-The number produced was small, and the early Y and F models in particular were highly prized.

②Slim 4 (2004 F series late to 2010)
- Later bezels have a thinner number "40" for a sharper design.
・Most of the 16610LV watches commonly available on the market are of this type.

③ Movement

It is equipped with Rolex's famous "Cal. 3135" movement, which is the same as the "Ref. 16610", and is highly practical.

Features of the Cal.3135: ・Maintains high accuracy at 28,800 vibrations per hour ・Improved shock resistance with twin bridge balance cock ・Improved durability with Teflon-coated escapement ・Improved magnetic resistance with the adoption of a blue Parachrom hairspring (late 2000s~)

"Cal. 3135" is highly regarded as a movement with excellent precision, durability, and maintainability, and an improved version is also installed in current Rolexes.

④ Bracelet

The "Ref. 16610LV" is fitted with the "93250" bracelet, which is the same as the later model of the "Ref. 16610".
- Robust design with integrated flash fit - Diver's extension included as standard (can be worn over a diving suit)

Additionally, models manufactured after 2007 (late Z numbers and later) have a "roulette engraving" on the inner circle.

summary

The "Ref.16610LV" is a special model among the five-digit reference Submariners, and is a rare model commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. In particular, the early Mk.1 models are traded at premium prices, and prices are expected to continue to rise in the future. In addition, as the last five-digit reference that combines a retro feel with practicality, it is also recommended for users who value the visibility of Luminova luminous material.

The "Ref. 16610LV," also known as the "Green Sub," is an important piece in Rolex history. If you're interested, why not pick one up and see for yourself what makes it so appealing?

If you are interested in any of the watches, please register your interest now!