RolexSubmariner

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.

Rolex is known for making small changes and revisions to its watches over their lifespan, and the “Kermit” is no exception. Most significant were the changes to dial and bezel - no less than six and five variations, respectively. Lauded by collectors, the most desirable are the early 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 rare new old stock example, an F serial number, is the very desirable MK1, considered by many collectors to be the true anniversary model. It has the very desirable “Flat 4” bezel insert, more specifically, the Mark I variation with the ‘B1’ serif numerals. In addition, it has the “wide” or “oval” MK1 dial, referring to the shape of the letter “O” in the word “ROLEX”. This particular watch, with its serial number below F54, is considered the grail watch of the LV series. Fully stickered, it’s also a true full-set and comes with the original box, guarantee, booklet, bezel protector, swing tags, calendar, and the collectable anchor pendant, an item that Rolex stopped shipping with Submariners and Sea-Dwellers in 2005.

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