The last generation flagship of the Submariner line, still action ready for desk dives and exploring the ocean blue.
Why We Love It
Launched in 2010 and discontinued in 2020 with the launch of the next generation of Submariners, the ref. 116610 for a solid decade represented the flagship of the iconic Submariner family. With its sturdy 40mm steel case, black ceramic bezel insert, and matching noir dial, the model was the less eye-catching of the dated duo of Submariners – the other being the green “Hulk” ref. 116610LV – but it was (and is) no less worthy of positive attention, since its debut serving as a remarkable daily wearer in Rolex’s catalog.
At its core, the ref. 116610 builds on the popular ref. 16610 which preceded it, doing so with the upgraded features you’d expect of a modern Rolex, including a proprietary Chromalight luminescent material, non-drilled lugs, and a ceramic bezel insert.
Why we love it thus remains much the same as why collectors in the mid-2010s did. With an iconic design that builds on more than half a century of Submariner history, the 116610 is one of the most solid references Rolex has produced to date. Take its wear and looks and bolster them with the ever-reliable Rolex caliber 3135, a ready-for-anything 40mm by 12.5mm 904L-grade Oystersteel case, and highly legible Maxi dial, and you have a timepiece more than ready for anything– whether that be desk diving or exploring the ocean blue.
The Backstory
Rolex changed the game when introducing the Submariner in 1953. The model helped meet the demand for dive watches, which were growing in popularity thanks to the sport becoming more widespread. However, the Submariner became equally attractive outside the diving community among those who were looking for a sporty fashion accessory. Over the years, the Submariner has continued to straddle this line of function, form, and fashion. It’s been put to the test by countless explorers, like the legendar…
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