An Iconic Timepiece for Divers and Watch Enthusiasts
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Rolex 116610 Submariner. If you’re a diving enthusiast or watch collector, you’re likely already familiar with this iconic timepiece. The Submariner is one of Rolex’s most recognizable watches, known for its classic design, excellent build quality, and exceptional functionality.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 116610 Submariner’s design, features, and performance. We’ll also explore its pros and cons, and provide a detailed comparison with other Rolex dive watches.
What is the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Submariner is a line of professional dive watches introduced in the early 1950s. It quickly gained popularity among divers and watch enthusiasts worldwide for its precise timekeeping, water resistance, and rugged construction.
Over the years, Rolex has introduced many variations of the Submariner, each one featuring small improvements and design changes while maintaining its signature look and essential features.
116610 Submariner: A Modern Classic
The Rolex 116610 Submariner, introduced in 2010, is the latest iteration of this iconic dive watch. It features a classic design that Rolex has refined over decades, combined with modern materials and technology.
The 116610 Submariner has a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 40mm, making it suitable for most wrist sizes. Its black ceramic bezel is highly scratch-resistant, and its luminescent markers ensure excellent readability in low-light conditions.
Inside the watch, you’ll find a self-winding mechanical movement that’s precise and reliable. It has a power reserve of up to 48 hours and is water-resistant up to 300m, making it an excellent choice for professional divers and recreational enthusiasts alike.
Advantages of the Rolex 116610 Submariner
A Classic Design That Stands the Test of Time
The Submariner’s timeless design has remained virtually unchanged for decades, and the 116610 Submariner is no exception. Its classic look is instantly recognizable and gives it a sense of sophistication and elegance that’s rare in dive watches.
The Submariner’s design is so iconic that it has become a symbol of luxury and success. Its understated elegance makes it suitable for formal occasions, while its rugged construction ensures it can handle any adventure you throw at it.
Exceptional Build Quality and Durability
Rolex watches are renowned for their exceptional build quality and durability, and the 116610 Submariner is no exception. Its stainless-steel case and bracelet are highly resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring that the watch looks and performs its best for years to come.
The watch’s ceramic bezel is virtually scratch-proof, ensuring that it remains looking new even after years of use. Its luminescent markers are also long-lasting and provide excellent readability in any lighting condition.
Exceptional Timekeeping and Functionality
The 116610 Submariner has an accurate and reliable mechanical movement that provides excellent timekeeping. The watch’s calendar function is also highly functional, providing a clear and concise display of the date.
The watch’s water resistance is another significant advantage, making it an excellent choice for divers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a watch that can withstand the elements.
Disadvantages of the Rolex 116610 Submariner
High Cost of Ownership
The Rolex 116610 Submariner is a high-end luxury watch, and its price reflects that. It’s not a cheap watch, and its cost of ownership can be a significant drawback for many potential buyers.
While the watch’s exceptional build quality and durability ensure that it will last for many years, its high cost of ownership can make it challenging to justify as an everyday wear watch.
Lack of Innovative Features
The 116610 Submariner is a classic dive watch, and its design has remained virtually unchanged for decades. While this may be an advantage for some, others may find it lacking in innovative features compared to other modern dive watches.
For example, the 116610 Submariner lacks a depth gauge, which is a standard feature on many modern dive watches. It also lacks a helium escape valve, which is essential for divers conducting deep saturation dives.
116610 Submariner vs. Other Rolex Dive Watches
| Model | Water Resistance | Bezel Material | Movement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Submariner | 300m | Ceramic | Mechanical, self-winding |
| Sea-Dweller | 1,220m | Ceramic | Mechanical, self-winding |
| Deepsea | 3,900m | Ceramic | Mechanical, self-winding |
The 116610 Submariner is one of several Rolex dive watches available, each one with its unique features and strengths. The table above provides a comparison of the Submariner with two other popular models, the Sea-Dweller and the Deepsea.
The Sea-Dweller and the Deepsea are designed for professional divers and offer significantly more water resistance than the Submariner. However, the Submariner’s classic design and lower price point make it an attractive option for recreational divers and watch collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the water resistance of the Rolex 116610 Submariner?
The 116610 Submariner is water-resistant up to 300m or 1,000ft.
2. What is the difference between the Rolex Submariner and the Sea-Dweller?
The Sea-Dweller is designed for professional divers and has significantly higher water resistance, a larger case, and features a helium escape valve.
3. What is the power reserve of the Rolex 116610 Submariner?
The 116610 Submariner has a power reserve of up to 48 hours.
4. What is the diameter of the Rolex 116610 Submariner?
The 116610 Submariner has a case diameter of 40mm.
5. Does the Rolex 116610 Submariner have a date function?
Yes, the 116610 Submariner has a date function displayed at the 3 o’clock position.
6. What is the price of the Rolex 116610 Submariner?
The price of the 116610 Submariner varies depending on the market and the retailer. At the time of writing, the retail price in the United States is $8,950.
7. Is the Rolex 116610 Submariner suitable for everyday wear?
While the 116610 Submariner is designed as a dive watch, its classic design and durability make it suitable for everyday wear. However, its high cost of ownership may make it difficult to justify as an everyday wear watch for some buyers.
8. How often should I service my Rolex 116610 Submariner?
Rolex recommends servicing your watch every ten years. However, the frequency of servicing may depend on how often you wear your watch and the environmental conditions it’s exposed to.
9. Can I swim with my Rolex 116610 Submariner?
Yes, the 116610 Submariner is designed to be worn while swimming and is water-resistant up to 300m.
10. Is the Rolex 116610 Submariner a good investment?
Rolex watches, including the 116610 Submariner, are known for their excellent durability and build quality, making them a good long-term investment. However, the value of a watch may fluctuate depending on market conditions and other factors.
11. What is the difference between the Rolex 116610 Submariner and the 116610LV Submariner?
The 116610LV Submariner, also known as the “Hulk” Submariner, features a green dial and bezel. It’s otherwise identical to the 116610 Submariner in terms of design, features, and performance.
12. Can I use my Rolex 116610 Submariner for scuba diving?
Yes, the 116610 Submariner is suitable for scuba diving and is water-resistant up to 300m. However, it’s important to follow proper diving procedures and safety guidelines.
13. How can I tell if my Rolex 116610 Submariner is authentic?
There are several ways to determine whether a Rolex watch is authentic, such as examining the dial, case, and movement for signs of quality and craftsmanship. It’s also important to purchase your watch from an authorized retailer or reputable dealer.
Conclusion: Is the Rolex 116610 Submariner Worth the Investment?
The Rolex 116610 Submariner is an iconic timepiece that has earned its reputation as one of the best dive watches on the market. Its classic design, exceptional build quality, and excellent functionality make it a coveted watch among divers and watch collectors alike.
While its high cost of ownership and lack of innovative features may give some buyers pause, the 116610 Submariner’s timeless design and exceptional durability make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.
Take Action Today and Invest in a Rolex 116610 Submariner
If you’re looking for a high-end dive watch that combines classic design with exceptional performance, the Rolex 116610 Submariner is an excellent choice. Invest in a Submariner today and experience the quality and craftsmanship that Rolex is known for.
Closing Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and are not intended to promote or endorse any particular product or brand. Readers should conduct their research and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.