A Review of the Rolex model 16610 Submariner

CJ · A Review of the Rolex model 16610 Submariner

Hi, all. I posted this on another forum and thought it would be nice to have here too.

The subject of this review is my M serial numbered (August 2007- to present) Submariner Date. I've heard that the model 14060M Submariner (non-date) is scheduled to be out of production, therefore, the 16610 is no longer referred to as the Submariner-Date, but rather, The Submariner. I'm not exactly sure of this, so don't hold me to it.

I've owned nearly every Rolex in the Professional line at one point or another with the exception of the Daytona and Yacht-master. I've also owned several Omega SMP's from the Bond style to the 2254. to the Planet Ocean and the Bond style Chronograph, as well as Breitling, Tutima, Tag and a Panerai for a short time. I've also been lucky enough to handle and wear some other very expensive brands. I have some friends in the jewelry business who would allow me to leave whatever Rolex I had at the time and wear what they may have had in for a day or two. These include pretty much every current production Rolex there is

Cartier, Franck Muller, Girard Perregaux, IWC, Jaeger LeCoultre, Maurice Lacroix, Ulysse Nardin, Breguet (seriously, the Brequet was just sick. I'd love to own one, but too much $$$) and Audemars Piguet. I've tried to base this review as objectively and unbiased as possible while using my experiences with the other brands and models listed as a comparative tool.

[size=150]Initial Observations[/size]
As copied a style as the Rolex Submariner is, it's just stunning in person. It has a look not copied or duplicated easily. It's styling is so simply classic that is projects eloquence and durability at the same time. The stark contrast between the deep, liquidy black of the bezel and dial with the smooth, sheeness of the stainless steel is instantly eye catching. The cyclopes magnifier over the date adds another dimension of depth to the appearance and allows for another reflective surface that only enhances the rich look of the Submariner. The cyclopes is also quite practical, as I can recall squinting more and more at the non magnified date of the Sea Dweller, as well as screams ROLEX to those who may be new spotting one. The larger sized Trip-Lock crown adds just the right look to even out the near perfect dimensions of this watch.

[size=150]Brand and Model[/size]
Let's face it, Rolex has become synonymous with "The Best Watch" for most. Most of us here know that that is far from the truth. While Rolex is a very fine timepiece, brands like Patek, Brequet, Blancpain, A. Lange & Shone and others are simply art on the wrist. But, few would understand this outside of the WIS environment. Rolex does have is perks, though, in the way of brand recognition and the Submariner is right up there at the very top of the most recognized Rolex list. A Submariner will fetch a plane ticket home, a hot meal and a place to sleep anywhere in the world for it's owner if he happens to find some bad luck abroad. For those owners with better luck while traveling

the Submariner holds it's value as well, if not better, than most others on the used market and prices are skyrocketing in the vintage arena.

[size=150]Versatility[/size]

As with so many other "sport" or "professional" type watches, even more so than most, the Submariner is at home in any setting. It looks fantastic with shorts on the boat or at the beach and was born to be worn over a wet suit several hundred feet beneath the waves. But, it fits in very well with jeans and a T-shirt, khaki's and a button-down, an expensive suit or even a Tux. It's timeless, classic, clean design really was a look way ahead of it's time. And, the brand identity achieved by Rolex master marketing only solidifies the Submariners place in the more formally dressed arena, while it's spectacular, hard earned roots demand it's place in the sport/casual settings. If it's only one watch you're going to own, this could easily be the one. It's 40mm size fits near perfectly on any wrist while the thickness of the case allows for a shirt cuff to fit over it with realative ease.

[size=150]Functionality[/size]
We all know that the clasp on the Submariner leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to those of Omegas SMP line. But, they've preformed with flying colors thus far, so they must be doing something right, huh? :laugh: I've heard some complain of the "plain jane" appearance of the Oyster bracelet. But, I for one, think that only adds to the classic look of the watch and would hate to see it change.

The bezel of the Submariner is quite tight, but simple to manipulate and use. It's one hundred, twenty positions only attests to Rolex quality and serves to be all the more accurate when used for any number of timing needs.

The Dial. Oh the dial

In my opinion, Rolex lume is just terrible and far less than one would expect from a watch accompanied by this price tag. If it were only half as bright as Omega's lume, I'd be thrilled. The dial markers are a bit small, in my opinion. The addition of the maxi-dial on a 16610 would be HUGE and a welcomed one that I would love to have. But, Rolex is Rolex and they seem to do what we just can't understand while doing it at a glaciers pace

[size=150]Price[/size]
In a word...it "SUCKS" and has definitely ended the "Tool watch" era for Rolex, in my opinion. At US $5850 it's definitely not a watch purchased by most to be used hard. Omega seems to have taken that spot nowadays. But, the tremendous re-sale value the Submariner commands definitely makes it an easier pill to swallow.

[size=150]Durability[/size]
I've owned quite a few and have beaten the hell out of all of them and I haven't been able to break one yet. The ever growing and appreciating in value vintage market only helps to confirm this.

[size=150]Quality[/size]
It's a Rolex. Their quality is second to none, in my opinion. You can wear a Submariner for twenty years, beat it and batter it.......scratch it and dent it. Send it back to the Rolex spa for four weeks and get it back looking spanking new, then sell it for more than you paid for it.

All in all, for me, it's the watch to own. It fits n with any setting I may find myself in. I can build some good stories with it and, one day, hand it down to another in my family. For true "Tool Watch" attributes (mechanical, that is) including price, lume and expendability, I'd say go with an Omega. But, for a rich heritage and a little piece of history on your wrist, I'm sticking with my Sub

I hope you all liked the review. I know it was a long read, believe me, it was a MUCH longer type

But, I do hope it was worthwhile.

Craig

uncle aj

A very worthwhile review Craig, thanks.

So do you like it?

Tools

There is just no denying that his watch has a following around the world..

One look at it and you can see why...

Great review of a great watch.........

CJ

Thanks, Adrian and Larry

I just couldn't be happier with this one

Flatlander

An excellent and impartial review.

Thanks for sharing.

DocD

Craig,

It's great to see you're finally wearing a real man's watch

However, I'm having trouble keeping up with which watch is on your wrist from week to week!

I'm going to have to call Gil (sorry, inside joke), to find out what he sold you from week to week so I know what you're wearing!

Seriously though, I'm glad to hear that you were able to get the sub(sub-date) and that you're happy with the watch. I agree that the Omega is a great value, but there's just something about the Rolex and it's heritage that can't be measured.

I'm also glad that you've been able to develop a great relationship with Gil. It's nice that he works for an established AD that you can trust. Since Gil doesn't work on commission, you know that he always has you best interest in mind, and will always get you the best price possible.

Gil has an appointment in my office this week, so we'll be talking "business" and I'll be sure to let him know that IF Rolex ever gives him any promotional items, I want to make sure that I get something for my referrals, and YOU get something for all your business for the 2 Omega's and the Sub.

Wear the Sub in the best of health......and I didn't forget about that meal at the White House......I mean the Homestead