RolexSubmariner

KEY FACTS

• This highly sought-after reference celebrates the 50th anniversary of Rolex’s iconic Submariner
• This early 'Y' serial reference from 2003 is among the first examples produced and has the highly sought-after 'Flat 4' bezel insert and oval 'O' dial
• Offered by a UK-based trade vendor
• ​Presented with a Rolex display box and outer box
• Graded ‘A’ for condition by the vendor who reports the watch to be in good working order

FUNCTIONS

• Time and date
• ​Powered by the chronometer-certified Rolex 3135 calibre
• ​Self-winding with a 48-hour power reserve
• ​Uni-directional dive bezel with 60-minute graduation
• Screw-down trip-lock crown delivers 300m of waterproofness (not currently tested) 

SUMMARY

The Rolex Submariner ref. 16610LV, or ‘Kermit’, was first released in 2003 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the world’s most recognised dive watch. Several changes over the regular Submariner were introduced to mark this special model, not least the striking green aluminium bezel insert - an ode to Rolex’s corporate colour and a symbol of the brand. The other key differentiator was the “maxi-dial”, further improving legibility and giving a subtle nod to the design of early Submariners.

Rolex is known for making small changes and revisions to its watches over their lifespan, and the Kermit is no exception. Most significant were those made to the dial and bezel - no less than six and five variations, respectively. Lauded by collectors, the most desirable are the Mark I versions of the bezel, known as “Flat 4”. Referring to the shape of the number “4” on the bezel, these were only produced for a short period of time, at the beginning of the production run.

This example, a Y serial number from 2003 is among the first produced and has this very desirable “Flat 4” bezel insert. It also has the “wide” or “oval” dial, referring to the shape of the letter “O” in the word “ROLEX”. 

The anniversary model benefits from all the regular features that have made the Submariner such a rugged and dependable watch. The 40mm Oyster case and bracelet are made from corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel, and the trip-lock crown affords 300 metres of waterproofness. As a major milestone celebration of the world’s most recognisable dive watch, this reference continues to reach new heights in collectability. 

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