Rolex
1997 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 16610)
The Rolex Submariner ref. 16610 was first introduced in 1986 by Rolex but didn't come into commercial availability until about 1987 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 corrosive-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 # | RLXSUB16610-18 | |
| 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 exceptional and thick case retains crisp factory chamfers with very minimal sleeve polish present from general wear. The original bezel insert remains a deep black color with only minor wear present and retains its tritium pearl which has aged to an off-white patina to match the dial. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces retains 11 links that show minor stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/4-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original glossy black dial is flawless, showing no damage or age. The tritium lume plots feature a subtle ivory color and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, under UV light inspection the minute hands displays some superficial craking in the lume and the hour and seconds hands exhibit no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.
