Rolex
*Unpolished* 1988 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 a lot of the same functions, the 16610 has an upgraded stainless steel case, from 316L steel to the highly corrosive resistant 904L steel, and featured the upgraded Rolex 3135 movement.
The earlier 16610 Submariner examples still feature tritium dials, which were replaced at the end of 1998 with super-luminova, which have become very desirable due to excellent color changes the lume can take on. Creating a wonderful vintage appeal with useful modern functionality.
Stock # | RLXSUB1661088 | |
Brand | Rolex | |
Style | Submariner | |
Model | 16610 | |
Serial | R7XXXXX | |
Size | Men's | |
Material | SS | |
Dial | Black (WG Surrounds) | |
Millimeters | 40 | |
Bracelet | Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 501B End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The unpolished case is in excellent original condition, showing only very light, honest signs of use with sharp chamfers down the lugs. The original bezel insert is in very strong condition, showing only light signs of use and retains its tritium pearl at the 12 o'clock which matches the dials creamy patina. The Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 501B end pieces remains unpolished as well and retains 11 links and shows no stretch.
DIAL & HANDS
The gloss black dial with white gold surround markers is in near flawless condition, showing no signs of aging. The tritium markers have aged to a lovely creamy yellow patina and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands are a few shades lighter than the dial, which is very common for this era and so no lume loss or degradation under U.V. light inspection.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is running at COSC spec, back by a 1-year warranty of accurate timekeeping.