The Legacy of the Submariner and the Arrival of the 116610

To truly appreciate the 116610, we must first understand the rich history of the Rolex Submariner. Born in 1953, the Submariner was one of the first watches designed specifically for scuba diving. It quickly became an icon, not just for its functionality, but also for its robust design and versatile aesthetics. Over the decades, the Submariner has undergone subtle yet significant evolutions, each iteration refining its form and function while staying true to its core DNA.

The 116610 arrived in 2010 as a successor to the 16610, a model that had served as the Submariner's standard bearer for over two decades. The transition from the 16610 to the 116610 was more than just a model number change; it represented a significant leap forward in materials and design philosophy. The most immediately noticeable change was the introduction of the Cerachrom bezel, Rolex's proprietary ceramic material, replacing the aluminum bezel insert of its predecessor. This innovation alone marked the 116610 as a distinctly modern Submariner.

While retaining the classic Submariner silhouette, the 116610 also incorporated what is often referred to as the "Super Case." This case design, characterized by broader lugs and crown guards, gave the watch a more substantial presence on the wrist. Coupled with the maxi dial, featuring larger hour markers and hands, the 116610 projected a bolder, more contemporary image compared to previous Submariner generations. This combination of classic Submariner DNA with modern enhancements cemented the 116610's place as a highly desirable reference.

Key Features and Specifications of the Rolex Submariner 116610

The Rolex Submariner 116610 is a masterpiece of engineering and design. Let's delve into its key features and specifications:

Case and Bezel

• Material: 904L Oystersteel (now known as Oystersteel, a corrosion-resistant alloy exclusive to Rolex)
• Diameter: 40mm
• Case Design: Oyster case, monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
• Bezel: Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with Cerachrom insert in black ceramic, numerals and graduations engraved and coated with platinum. Scratch-resistant and virtually fade-proof.
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Cyclops lens over the date
• Water Resistance: Waterproof to 300 meters / 1,000 feet

Dial and Hands

• Dial: Black lacquer dial
• Hour Markers: Applied indices, "Maxi Dial" with larger luminous markers for enhanced legibility
• Hands: Larger Mercedes hands filled with Chromalight luminescent material for long-lasting blue luminescence in dark conditions.

Movement

• Caliber: Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement
• Functions: Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting.
• Precision: Officially certified Swiss chronometer (COSC)
• Oscillator: Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring
• Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours

Bracelet and Clasp

• Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with flat three-piece links
• Material: 904L Oystersteel
• Clasp: Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments of the bracelet length without tools – crucial for wearing over a diving suit.

These specifications highlight the 116610's robust construction, precision engineering, and commitment to functionality, all hallmarks of the Rolex brand and the Submariner lineage.

Why the 116610 Became a Modern Classic

The Rolex Submariner 116610 resonated deeply with watch enthusiasts and the wider public for several compelling reasons:

• Cerachrom Bezel Innovation: The introduction of the Cerachrom bezel was a game-changer. It offered superior scratch resistance, fade-proof color, and a luxurious sheen compared to the aluminum bezels of previous generations. This technological advancement was highly appreciated and instantly elevated the perceived quality of the watch.
• Enhanced Wrist Presence: The "Super Case" and Maxi dial gave the 116610 a more contemporary and substantial feel on the wrist. While some purists initially debated the change, the bolder design quickly gained widespread acceptance and contributed to its modern appeal.
• Improved Legibility: The larger hour markers and hands, filled with Chromalight, significantly improved nighttime legibility. This enhanced functionality aligned perfectly with the Submariner's tool watch heritage.
• Proven Caliber 3135 Movement: The 116610 was powered by the tried-and-true Caliber 3135 movement. Renowned for its reliability, robustness, and accuracy, this movement provided a solid foundation for the watch's performance.
• Versatility and Timeless Design: Despite its modern updates, the 116610 retained the iconic and versatile design that has made the Submariner a classic for decades. It seamlessly transitions from diving depths to formal occasions, making it a truly all-purpose timepiece.
• Rolex Brand Prestige: As a Rolex, the 116610 benefits from the brand's unparalleled reputation for quality, precision, and luxury. Owning a Rolex Submariner is often seen as a statement of success and discerning taste.

These factors combined to make the 116610 not just a popular watch, but a modern classic that solidified the Submariner's enduring appeal in the 21st century.

The Market for the Rolex Submariner 116610: Value and Availability

The Rolex Submariner 116610 is highly sought after on both the primary and secondary markets. Production ceased in 2020, replaced by the 126610LN, further increasing its collectibility and value.

Availability and Waiting Lists

When it was in production, obtaining a 116610 at retail from an Authorized Dealer (AD) was often challenging due to high demand. Waiting lists were common, and some buyers faced significant delays. Today, as a discontinued model, the 116610 is no longer available at retail.

Secondary Market Value

The secondary market for the 116610 is robust. Pre-owned examples command prices significantly above their original retail price. Several factors influence the value of a pre-owned 116610:

• Condition: Watches in mint or near-mint condition with original boxes and papers ("full set") command the highest prices.
• Age: While all 116610 models are relatively recent, earlier production years may have slightly different nuances. However, condition generally outweighs age in value determination.
• Provenance: Watches with documented history or known previous ownership might attract collectors and command a premium.
• Market Fluctuations: The luxury watch market can be influenced by economic trends and collector sentiment, leading to price fluctuations.

Prospective buyers should research current market prices from reputable dealers and online platforms to understand the fair value of a 116610 in their desired condition. Purchasing from trusted sources is crucial to ensure authenticity and avoid counterfeit watches.

Investment Potential

The Rolex Submariner 116610, like many Rolex sports models, has demonstrated strong appreciation in value over time. While past performance is not indicative of future results, the 116610's status as a discontinued, highly desirable reference suggests it will likely continue to hold its value and potentially appreciate further, making it a potentially sound investment piece, in addition to a beautiful and functional watch.

Caring for Your Rolex Submariner 116610

To ensure your Rolex Submariner 116610 remains in excellent condition and functions flawlessly for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your watch regularly with a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. This removes dirt, dust, and skin oils that can accumulate over time.
• Saltwater Rinse: If you wear your 116610 in saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterwards to prevent salt corrosion.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not expose your watch to harsh chemicals, solvents, or extreme temperatures.
• Professional Servicing: Rolex recommends a complete service approximately every 5-10 years, depending on usage. This service, performed by a Rolex Authorized Service Center, includes disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement of worn parts, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
• Proper Storage: When not wearing your 116610, store it in a safe, dry place, preferably in its original box or a watch box, away from extreme temperatures and magnetic fields.
• Crown and Bezel Operation: Ensure the crown is always fully screwed down when not setting the time or date to maintain water resistance. Operate the bezel gently and avoid forcing it.

Following these simple care guidelines will help preserve the beauty and functionality of your Rolex Submariner 116610 for generations.

Alternatives to the 116610 and the Evolution to the 126610LN

While the 116610 is highly desirable, there are alternative Submariner models and other dive watches to consider:

Rolex Submariner 126610LN

The successor to the 116610, the 126610LN, was released in 2020. It features a slightly larger 41mm case, a refined case profile, the new generation Caliber 3235 movement with a longer 70-hour power reserve, and a slightly wider bracelet. The 126610LN is the current production Submariner with a date and black Cerachrom bezel. It builds upon the legacy of the 116610 with further refinements.

Rolex Submariner No-Date (114060 and 124060)

For those who prefer a cleaner dial without a date window, the Submariner No-Date models (references 114060 and the current 124060) offer a purist aesthetic. These models share many of the same features as the 116610 and 126610LN, but without the date complication.

Other Luxury Dive Watches

Beyond Rolex, brands like Omega (Seamaster Planet Ocean, Seamaster Diver 300M), Blancpain (Fifty Fathoms), and Tudor (Black Bay) offer excellent luxury dive watches that may appeal to those seeking alternatives in terms of style, price point, or brand preference.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences, budget, and priorities. However, the 116610 remains a benchmark against which many other dive watches are measured.