Property of an Important British Collector
Rolex
Submariner, Reference 16610 | A stainless steel wristwatch with date and bracelet | Circa 1992
Lot Closed
December 17, 02:35 PM GMT
Estimate
5,000 - 10,000 GBP
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Read more.Lot Details
Description
Rolex
Submariner, Reference 16610
A stainless steel wristwatch with date and bracelet
Circa 1992
Dial: black
Calibre: cal. 3135 automatic, 31 jewels
Movement number: 6'088'242
Case: stainless steel, screw-down case back
Case number: E'227'494
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 170 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Papers: yes
Box: yes
Accessories: Rolex International Guarantee card, card holder and presentation box with outer packaging
The Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1954, quickly became an icon as a robust and highly water-resistant diver’s wristwatch. Its timeless design has evolved only subtly over six decades, helping to cement the model’s legendary status.
The reference 16610 was produced from 1987 to 2010, spanning more than 20 years and introducing key technical advancements. Replacing the outgoing Submariner 16800, it is often regarded by collectors as the last “pre-modern” Submariner, preceding the arrival of maxi cases and ceramic bezel inserts with the reference 116610.
Over its long production run, the 16610 underwent a series of progressive updates, including the transition from Tritium to Luminova luminescence in the late 1990s, the removal of drilled lugs, and the addition of the Rolex engraving around the dial’s outer ring. It is powered by the caliber 3135, which continues to serve as the movement for the current 116610. The present watch is further distinguished by the case inscription ‘C.A.R.A.’, a discreet tribute to the current owner and the personal significance it carries.