The stainless steel Submariner is one of the most recognizable Rolex watches in the world. Rolex launched the iconic Submariner series in 1953 and today; it includes a wide range of gold and bi-tone versions with a different bezel and dial colors. However, the stainless steel model with a black bezel and the dial is yet the most popular and classic choice among today’s watch collectors.

The Submariner Reference 16610 is known to be the most successful Rolex watches. The watch enjoyed a production run for more than twenty years. However, Rolex discontinued the Submariner 16610 in 2010 and replaced it with an updated edition as Reference 116610LN. And we will take an in-depth look at the Submariner 116610LN.

Rolex Submariner Reference 116610LN
The Rolex Submariner Reference 116610LN holds a significant position historically in the luxury watch industry as it was the first model to introduce Cerachrom ceramic bezel. And it was ideally the most significant upgrade that Rolex made to the Submariner series from the last several decades.

Besides, Rolex upgraded the overall design and bracelet for a more contemporary look, making the Reference 116610LN one of the most popular and coveted luxury timepieces in the world.

Defining Features of the Rolex Submariner 116610LN

Case
If you place Reference 16610 and its successor, the 116610LN, you will find a noticeable difference between them. Both watches flaunt a full stainless steel case and a black dial and bezel. However, the Submariner 116610LN bears overall a more modern aesthetic.

Rolex equipped this watch with a rejuvenated case design that collectors refer to as the ‘Super Case’ because of its much more angular proportions. The Reference 116610LN features a similar 40mm case size to its predecessor model. However, the bigger crown guards and considerably thicker lugs make the watch appear more prominent while on the wrist.

More significantly, an entirely redevised Cerachrom bezel frames the watch’s case that allows smoother functionality. The Cerachrom is the brand’s patented ceramic component, resistant to scratches, corrosion, and UV exposure.

Dial
The Submariner Reference 116610LN comes with a highly readable ‘Maxi’ dial with wider hands and larger hour markers. Other features include Rolex’s signature Cyclops lens, anti-reflective coating, and a sapphire crystal. Although the watch features upgraded dial proportions, the overall aesthetic is similar to its predecessor's main design. It retains the same gloss black surface; 18ct white gold outlined applied hour markers and white text.

However, the more prominent hour markers and hands complement the more expansive case proportions of the Reference 116610LN. Furthermore, the hands and markers are furnished with Rolex’s patented luminous material ‘Chromalight’, offering too bright and enduring blue glow for up to 8hours.

Bracelet
Rolex introduced the Submariner 116610LN also offering a revived bracelet with the brand’s innovative Glidelock extension system. The upgraded bracelet also includes entirely solid links and a redevised clasp. Interestingly, the brand’s Glidelock system enables wearers to adjust the bracelet length without using any tools.

Rolex designed and equipped the Glidelock keeping divers in mind who could wear the timepiece around wetsuits' thick sleeves. This system was created especially for scuba divers. However, the adjustment capability of the Glidelock clasp makes it convenient to use throughout the day as the bracelet length can contract or expand on your wrist that fluctuates in size due to hydration and humidity levels.

So the Submariner 116610LN sits comfortably on almost all wrist sizes because of its revived bracelet and versatile case size. You can wear the watch all day without feeling uncomfortable on the wrist.

Movement
The Rolex Submariner Reference 116610LN houses the in-house Calibre 3135 self-winding movement. Rolex designed and produced this movement entirely in its factory, making it precise and durable.

The brand unleashed this movement in the late 1980s and continues to use it to date. However, the Rolex Calibre 3135 is regarded as one of the best automatic movements ever produced. The Calibre 3135 movement comes with Rolex’s patented blue Parachrom hairspring that offers resistance to shocks, temperature fluctuations, and magnetic fields.

Rolex also designed this upgraded movement offering a calendar feature that automatically changes. You can see it under the Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock, and the date changes instantaneously over at midnight.

Another significant fact is that Calibre 3135 is a chronometer-certified movement. This certification is attributed to only the most precise and reliable movements in the market. If the watch is maintained correctly, the Calibre 3135 powering will continue to display specific timings for several lifetimes.

Well, Rolex has discontinued the production of Submariner Reference 116610LN. However, this means that you can get this highly coveted luxury timepiece only in the second-hand market. Rolex enthusiasts know that Rolex developed the Submariner originally as a professional diver’s watch, meeting scuba divers' needs.

Introduced in 1953, the Submariner was the ever-first wristwatch in the world that was water-resistant up to 100m. Since its introduction, it has become one of the most successful and popular Rolex watches of all time.

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