Rolex
*Unpolished* 1989 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 16610) "Creamy Patina"
The Rolex Submariner ref. 16610 was first introduced in 1986 by Rolex but didn't come into commercial availability until about 1988, and is the direct successor to the earlier 16800 and 168000 Submariner references. Still featuring many of the same functions, the 16610 has an upgraded stainless steel case, from 316L steel to the highly corrosion-resistant 904L steel, and features the upgraded Rolex Cal. 3135 movement.
The earlier 16610 Submariner examples still feature tritium dials, which were replaced at the end of 1998 with Super-LumiNova. These early tritium examples have become very desirable due to the charming color changes the lume can take on. Creating a fantastic vintage appeal with useful modern functionality.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXSUB16610-19 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Submariner | |
| Model | 16610 | |
| Serial | U4XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Glossy Black | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 501B End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The sharp and exceptionally well-preserved case boasts crisp factory finishing and defined chamfers down the unpolished lugs. The case does exhibit some signs of use. The original bezel insert is also in excellent condition, showing almost no wear and no fading, with the tritium pearl intact and matching the creamy patina of the hands. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces retains 11 links that show nominal stretch and will fit up to a 7.25-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original glossy black dial is flawless, showing no damage or signs of age. The tritium lume plots have taken on a vivid golden patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands have developed a creamy patina that matches the pearl and coordinates beautifully with the dial. They remain in excellent condition, with the only notable wear being some superficial cracking in the lume of the seconds hand, which remains stable. The rest of the hands exhibit no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.