Rolex Submariner Date

Overview

Presented by Pride & Pinion, this Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV is an exceptionally desirable example of the model widely known as the “Kermit”. It is described as totally unworn and fully stickered, preserving the crisp, untouched character that collectors value in an early anniversary Submariner. Supplied with its original warranty card dated December 2009, this is a distinctive and historically important Rolex sports watch.

The 16610LV combines the instantly recognisable proportions of the classic Submariner Date with a vivid green bezel insert and a restrained black dial. Its 40mm stainless steel case, matching Oyster bracelet and date display create a versatile specification: capable enough for its diving heritage, yet refined enough for everyday wear. Offered at £26,950, it represents a compelling opportunity to acquire one of the most collectable modern-generation Submariner references.

For collectors building a serious Rolex portfolio, the appeal is found in the balance between familiarity and rarity. The watch retains the traditional Submariner silhouette while introducing the green colour that has since become closely associated with Rolex’s anniversary and celebratory models. Explore our wider selection of Rolex watches to compare this reference with other significant examples from the brand.

Brand and reference history

Rolex introduced the Submariner in the 1950s, establishing a benchmark for purpose-built dive watches and helping to define the visual language of the category. Over subsequent decades, the model evolved through incremental improvements in water resistance, case construction, bracelet engineering and movement performance. The core formula, however, remained remarkably consistent: a highly legible dial, a rotating timing bezel and a robust Oyster case designed for demanding conditions.

The Ref. 16610LV was launched in 2003 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. The “LV” suffix refers to “Lunette Verte”, meaning green bezel, and this colour initially divided opinion because it departed from the traditionally monochrome Submariner aesthetic. With hindsight, that departure became the source of the reference’s identity. The green aluminium bezel insert, paired with the black dial, gave the watch a distinctive appearance without compromising the model’s essential character.

At the time of release, the green bezel was not universally regarded as an obvious success. The market’s appreciation developed gradually, particularly as the 16610LV remained a relatively short-lived reference and later Submariner generations adopted different case and bezel configurations. Today, the anniversary connection, discontinued status and unmistakable colour combination have made the Kermit a cornerstone of contemporary Rolex collecting.

Dial, hands and design detail

The black dial provides the visual anchor for this Submariner Date. Its deep, high-contrast surface allows the luminous hour markers and Mercedes-style hour hand to remain immediately legible, whether the watch is viewed in bright daylight or in low-light conditions. White-gold surrounds to the hour plots add a precise, polished frame around each marker, while the familiar layout keeps the dial balanced and highly functional.

At three o’clock, the date aperture is accompanied by Rolex’s Cyclops magnifier integrated into the sapphire crystal. This detail is both practical and emblematic of the Submariner Date, enlarging the calendar display for quick reading. The central hands and hour markers are designed for clear orientation, while the sweeping seconds hand provides a continuous indication that the movement is running.

The defining design statement is the green bezel insert. Rather than overwhelming the dial, it frames the black centre and introduces a controlled flash of colour around the outside of the watch. On the Ref. 16610LV, the aluminium insert is part of the period specification and contributes to the reference’s vintage-modern character. It feels recognisably Submariner, yet immediately more unusual than a standard black-bezel example.

Case, bracelet and wearability

The watch is built around a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, a proportion that has long been regarded as one of the most versatile in the Submariner’s history. Its diameter offers a strong wrist presence without the visual bulk associated with some contemporary sports watches. The case profile, protected crown and solid lugs create the robust silhouette expected from Rolex’s professional diving line.

Water-resistance is supported by the Oyster case architecture and screw-down crown, although the exact performance of any pre-owned dive watch should be confirmed through appropriate testing before underwater use. The unidirectional bezel is designed around elapsed-time measurement, allowing a diver to monitor a remaining air supply or a timed interval. Its one-way operation is an important safety feature because accidental movement can only indicate less remaining time.

A stainless steel Oyster bracelet completes the watch. Its three-link construction is both visually balanced and technically appropriate for the Submariner, offering a secure connection to the wrist while preserving the model’s clean, utilitarian character. As this watch is described as unworn and fully stickered, it presents an especially appealing opportunity for a buyer seeking the sharp, untouched appearance associated with an original-condition example.

Movement and technical specification

The Ref. 16610LV is powered by Rolex’s self-winding Calibre 3135, one of the most respected automatic movements of its generation. The calibre has a long-standing reputation for durability, stable performance and serviceability, making it a natural fit for the Submariner Date. Automatic winding allows the mainspring to be replenished through normal wrist movement, while the movement’s date mechanism advances through the aperture at three o’clock.

Calibre 3135 is a mechanical movement, meaning that its performance is influenced by factors including wear, magnetism, shock, position and time since its last service. Even when a watch has not been worn, age can affect lubricants and seals, so an appropriate inspection is important when establishing its current operating condition. No service history has been provided for this watch, and we do not infer one.

• Brand: Rolex
• Model: Submariner Date
• Reference: 16610LV
• Common nickname: Kermit
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Case diameter: 40mm
• Dial colour: Black
• Bezel: Green aluminium insert with unidirectional rotation
• Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
• Movement: Rolex Calibre 3135, automatic mechanical
• Display: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
• Warranty card: Original card dated December 2009

For context, collectors often compare the Submariner’s practical tool-watch design with Rolex’s travel-focused sports models, including the Rolex GMT Master II. The two families serve different purposes, but both demonstrate the brand’s ability to turn highly functional specifications into enduring design icons.

Sizing and how it wears

At 40mm, the 16610LV remains an accommodating size for a broad range of wrists. It has enough diameter and visual authority to feel unmistakably like a professional Rolex sports watch, while its relatively moderate dimensions keep it comfortable beneath a cuff and suitable for daily use. The black dial prevents the face from appearing overly expansive, and the green bezel adds character without increasing the physical footprint.

The Oyster bracelet gives the watch a secure, close-to-the-wrist feel. Its articulated links allow it to follow the wrist’s shape, while the clasp provides the reassuring closure expected from a serious sports watch. Bracelet fit is individual, and the final wearing experience will depend on wrist circumference, link configuration and clasp adjustment. A prospective owner should also consider that unworn, stickered condition may make the watch particularly attractive as a collection piece as well as a wearable daily companion.

Stylistically, the Kermit is more versatile than its nickname might suggest. The green bezel is certainly more expressive than a standard black Submariner, but the black dial, steel case and steel bracelet retain a restrained foundation. It can work with casual clothing, business attire and formal separates, provided the wearer is comfortable allowing the bezel to become a subtle focal point.

Collectability and market value

The Ref. 16610LV occupies a significant position in Rolex collecting because it was created for the Submariner’s 50th anniversary and introduced a green bezel to a traditionally conservative model line. That historical context gives the watch meaning beyond its specification. It is not simply a black-dial Submariner with a different colour insert; it is an anniversary reference that helped establish green as one of Rolex’s most recognisable contemporary signatures.

Collectability is also influenced by the reference’s position between older aluminium-bezel Submariners and later ceramic-bezel generations. The 16610LV retains the slimmer, more traditional case proportions associated with the five-digit Rolex era, while the green insert makes it visually distinct. Collectors often appreciate this combination of familiar construction and special-edition character, particularly when an example retains important original accessories and presents in exceptional condition.

This particular watch is offered at £26,950. Its described unworn and fully stickered state, together with the original warranty card dated December 2009, are material elements in assessing its desirability. Market values can change, and prices for collectible watches are influenced by condition, completeness, authenticity, service status and wider collector demand. A quoted price should therefore be understood as the current asking price for this specific example rather than a guarantee of future performance.

Its appeal extends beyond investment considerations. The strongest reason to buy a Kermit is its combination of historical relevance, daily usability and unmistakable identity. It is a watch that can be enjoyed on the wrist, studied as part of Rolex’s design evolution and retained as a meaningful reference within a broader collection of dive watches.

Authenticity, condition and servicing

This Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV is described as totally unworn and fully stickered. That condition is particularly notable on a discontinued reference, where many examples have accumulated signs of wear, polishing or replacement parts during their lives. Retained stickers can help communicate that the watch has remained untouched, although condition assessment should always consider the complete watch, its components and accompanying documentation rather than relying on a single feature.

The watch comes with its original warranty card, dated December 2009. This provides useful documentary context for the piece, but no additional provenance, service history or guarantee has been supplied in the available notes. We therefore make no assumptions beyond the information stated. Buyers should review the watch and its accompanying items carefully, and any questions about the exact contents of the set should be raised before purchase.

Mechanical watches benefit from periodic professional attention, even when they have seen little or no wrist time. Seals, lubricants and movement components can age while a watch is stored, and water resistance should be checked before exposure to moisture. If the watch is intended for diving, a current pressure test and inspection by a suitably qualified specialist are essential. Servicing should be carried out according to the watch’s condition and technical requirements, rather than simply because a fixed interval has elapsed.

For a collector, the distinction between unworn presentation and mechanical readiness is important. A watch can retain its original external condition while still requiring a technical assessment before regular use. Pride & Pinion can discuss the condition information available for this example and help a prospective buyer understand what is included with the watch.

Buying this watch from us

Buying a collectible Rolex requires confidence in the watch’s identity, condition and supporting documentation. Pride & Pinion presents this Ref. 16610LV with clear information about its reference, specification, stated condition, asking price and original warranty card. We aim to give buyers the context needed to make an informed decision, particularly when considering a discontinued model whose desirability depends on details such as bezel type, case proportions and completeness.

The watch is priced at £26,950. Before committing, we recommend confirming the precise contents of the package, reviewing the condition of the case, bracelet, clasp, bezel, crystal and dial, and discussing any service or testing information available. Because no unprovided serial number, guarantee or service history has been added here, buyers should rely on the documentation and checks supplied for this individual watch.

As a pre-owned specialist, we understand that different customers buy the Kermit for different reasons. Some want a historically important anniversary Submariner; others are looking for a distinctive daily Rolex with strong long-term collector interest. The 16610LV accommodates both perspectives. Its 40mm steel construction remains practical, its black-and-green design is instantly recognisable, and its unworn, stickered presentation makes it unusually compelling for a reference of this age.

To enquire about availability, delivery arrangements or the details supplied with this Rolex Submariner Date, contact Pride & Pinion directly. Our team can help clarify the information available for the watch and guide you through the next steps towards ownership of this landmark Kermit reference.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610LV?

The Ref. 16610LV is a Rolex Submariner Date produced to commemorate the model’s 50th anniversary. It features a 40mm stainless steel case, black dial and green bezel insert. The reference is commonly known by the nickname “Kermit”.

Why is the 16610LV called the Kermit?

The nickname refers to the watch’s green bezel, which is paired with a black dial. The colour combination reminded collectors of the well-known green character Kermit the Frog. The nickname is informal, but it has become widely established among Rolex enthusiasts.

Is this Rolex Submariner unworn?

The watch is described as totally unworn and fully stickered. This indicates an exceptionally fresh external presentation, although buyers should review the specific condition information and documentation supplied with the watch before purchase.

What movement powers the 16610LV?

The watch is powered by Rolex Calibre 3135, an automatic mechanical movement with hours, minutes, seconds and date functions. It is one of Rolex’s best-known movements from the five-digit Submariner era.

Does the watch come with its original warranty card?

Yes. The available details state that the watch comes with its original warranty card, dated December 2009. No additional provenance or service history has been provided in the supplied notes.

Is the Kermit suitable for diving?

The Submariner was designed as a professional dive watch, with a screw-down crown and unidirectional timing bezel. However, any pre-owned watch should undergo an appropriate inspection and water-resistance test before being used underwater, particularly if its recent service and pressure-testing history are not confirmed.