Watch Anatomy Vol. 20: Rolex Submariner (Ref. 126610LN & 126610LV)

What do you look for when choosing a mechanical watch?

Many people would probably answer "design," "functionality," and "asset value." Of course, appearance and resale value are very important points, but by increasing your knowledge and understanding of the historical background of brands and models, minor changes over the years, and other such things, 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 both beginners and advanced users, and thoroughly dissect and explain them in detail to serve as a reference for your watch selection.

This time, we will be focusing on the Rolex Submariner Ref. 126610LN & 126610LV, so be sure to read to the end.

Fifth Generation Submariner Date Ref.126610LN & Ref.126610LV

The Rolex Submariner has been an icon of diver's watches since its birth in 1953. In 2020, the fifth generation "Ref. 126610LN" and the "Ref. 126610LV", commonly known as the "Green Sub", were released. This time, we will take a closer look at the details of these two models.

Model Overview

"Ref.126610LN" and "Ref.126610LV" are the fifth-generation Submariner Date models that were released in 2020. Compared to the previous generation "Ref.116610" series, there have been significant improvements to the case, bracelet, and movement.

The biggest topic of this generation is that the case size has been enlarged to 41mm. Rolex Submariner has maintained the 40mm case size since its birth, but the size has been increased by 1mm. At the same time, the lug design has been slimmed down, the overall balance has been refined, and it has a more elegant impression.

In addition, the movement has been upgraded to "Cal.3235", and the power reserve has been extended to approximately 70 hours, greatly improving its practicality.

Furthermore, the "Green Sub" "Ref.126610LV" has returned to the black dial + green bezel color scheme. While the previous model "Ref.116610LV (Hulk)" adopted a green dial, the "Ref.126610LV" combines a green bezel and black dial, making it a design reminiscent of the original "Green Sub". The coloring of this green bezel and black dial is similar to the corporate color of Starbucks Coffee, so the nickname "Starbucks" has become established.

Basic specifications

"Ref.126610LN"
・Manufacturing year: 2020-present (July 2025)
Case size: 41mm
Bezel: Anti-reverse (Cerachrom insert)
Windshield: Sapphire crystal (crown openwork at 6 o'clock)
-Water resistance: 300m -Bracelet: Oyster bracelet (with Glidelock: 97JB00)
Movement: Cal.3235 (power reserve approximately 70 hours)
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour

"Ref.126610LV"
・Manufacturing year: 2020-present (July 2025)
Case size: 41mm
Bezel: Unidirectional (Cerachrom insert, green)
Windshield: Sapphire crystal (crown openwork at 6 o'clock)
-Water resistance: 300m -Bracelet: Oyster bracelet (with Glidelock: 97JB00)
Movement: Cal.3235 (power reserve approximately 70 hours)
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour

①Dial

"Ref.126610LN"

The black dial features white Chromalight luminous material that glows blue in the dark. The design is not significantly different from the conventional Submariner Date, but the slimmer lugs give it a more sleek look.

"Ref.126610LV"

The biggest change is the combination of a black dial and a green bezel. Unlike the previous generation "Hulk", the dial has returned to black. This color scheme is reminiscent of the third generation "Green Sub" "Ref. 16610LV".

Common dial features : Chromalight luminous paint: Uses blue-emitting luminous paint to improve visibility in dark places.
- "SWISS MADE" inscription: As proof that the watch is equipped with a new movement, a crown mark will be placed between the "SWISS MADE" letters.

②Bezel

The "Ref. 126610" series also uses a Cerachrom bezel, just like the previous generation.

Cerachrom bezel features : Scratch resistance: Less prone to scratches than an aluminum bezel, and retains its beauty for a long time.
- UV resistance: There is almost no risk of fading due to UV rays.

In addition, the indexes are coated with platinum PVD, giving the watch a more luxurious finish.

In addition, for the "Ref. 126610LV", a minor change will be made to the color of the bezel around 2023.

From 2020

From 2023

③Bracelet

The bracelet of the "Ref. 126610" series has also been updated from the previous generation.

Main changes : The bracelet is slightly wider, improving the fit.
- The glide lock clasp is still used, allowing fine adjustments in approximately 2mm increments without tools (maximum of approximately 20mm).
- Improved overall rigidity for a more robust build.

④ Movement

The "Ref.126610" series is equipped with a new movement, "Cal.3235," which has dramatically improved its practicality. Above all, the extended power reserve has made it weekend proof. It is a great convenience to take off the watch on Friday night and not have to wind it again when you put it on on Monday morning.

Features of the "Cal.3235" : Power reserve extended to approximately 70 hours: A significant increase from the approximately 48 hours of the "Cal.3135".
- Uses the Chronergy escapement: More energy efficient than conventional lever escapements.
-Parachrom hairspring: Excellent magnetic and shock resistance, and less susceptible to environmental changes.
-Improved accuracy: Chronometer certified (COSC obtained).

summary

The "Ref.126610LN" and "Ref.126610LV" are the fifth generation Submariner Date models that have evolved even further. Although the case size has increased to 41mm, the overall balance has become more refined due to the change in the lug design.

In particular, the combination of the black dial and green bezel of the “Green Sub” “Ref. 126610LV” is reminiscent of the third-generation “Ref. 16610LV”, and is gaining a new fan base.

It is still very popular on the market, and the "Green Sub" in particular is trading at a premium price. Keep an eye on future market trends, and if you come across one that catches your eye, be sure to check it out as soon as possible.

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