RolexSubmariner

KEY FACTS

• The 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner ‘Kermit’ with the ‘Flat 4’ bezel is among the most collectable and sought-after modern sports Rolexes
• ​This example is in unworn condition with a number of factory protective stickers still in place 
• Offered by a private collector based in the UK
• Presented with as a full set including the box, outside sleeve, warranty, booklets, calendar card, wallet, swing tags, Rolex anchor pendant and original purchase receipt
• Graded ‘AA’ for condition by the vendor 

FUNCTIONS

• Hours, minutes, seconds and date
• Powered by the chronometer-certified calibre 3135
• Automatic winding with a 48-hour power reserve
• Screw-down trip-lock crown delivers 300m of waterproofness (not tested) 
• Uni-directional dive bezel with 60-minute graduation

SUMMARY

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 those made to the dial and bezel - no less than six and five variations, respectively. Lauded by collectors, the most desirable are the MK 1 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 'F' serial number example is among the first produced and has the 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”. 

As a major milestone celebration of the world’s most recognisable dive watch, this reference continues to reach new heights in collectability, and this example has the added desirability of being in unworn condition with a number of factory stickers in place. 

All watches offered for sale are searched and cleared against The Watch Register database and a certificate is available to the winning bidder upon request.

Any watch not covered by a current sales or service warranty should be considered as potentially requiring a service, even if in full working order on the date of purchase.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Watch Collecting requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.