RolexSubmariner

Offered by a private collector, this lot represents an opportunity to acquire the highly collectable “Flat 4” variant of Rolex’s 50th-anniversary Submariner. This full set example dates to 2004 and is accompanied by its display box, outer box, warranty papers, sleeve, booklets, polishing cloth, calendar cards and swing tags. Also included is the collectable anchor pendant which is an accessory Rolex no longer supplies with its watches.

The vendor advises the watch has been worn no more than ten times. Some light marks and swirls on the case and bracelet can be viewed in the images including a small scratch on the bezel at 5 o’clock. Its overall condition is consistent with the vendor’s ‘A’ grading.

The Rolex Submariner 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.

This revised dial paved the way for modern iterations and was introduced as a permanent design feature in newer models but was then paired with a bulkier “Super” case. As a result, the Kermit became unique for having the dial layout from modern Submariners, but with the more traditional case shape and vintage charm of models from the ’80s and ’90s.

Rolex is known for making small changes and revisions to its watches over their lifespan, and the “Kermit” is no exception. The earliest examples are known as “Flat 4” which refers to the shape of the number “4” on the bezel. These were only produced for a short time, at the beginning of the production run and are lauded by collectors. This F series example features this bezel, taking an already desirable watch to new heights in collectability.

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