Rolex Collection: 5-Day On-Wrist Experience

Echi · 2021-03-25T22:05:25Z

Echi reviews his Rolex Submariner after 5 days, exploring wearability, design nuances, and the true ownership experience. Discover what makes this iconic reference unique.

Echi

WPS member · Rolex forum

22 replies2112 views2 photos

Echi, a respected member of the WatchProSite community, shares a candid five-day wrist review of his new Rolex Submariner. His post delves into the often-overlooked final 10% of the ownership experience, where a watch's true character reveals itself beyond specifications and initial impressions. This introspective look at the Submariner's wearability and subtle design nuances offers valuable insights for collectors considering this iconic reference.

22 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

I’ve been on a back and forth with this watch. You know how it goes. Research, hunt, then when you finally nail a very good specimen, you think to yourself, hmmm, does it live up to expectations?

That’s where the ownership process comes in. I usually don’t get it right a 100% even after having done research which includes meeting up with a friend who has one so that I can see how it actually sits on my wrist. So I have to buy the piece to figure out that last 10%. As most of you know, we can all read up on a piece, test drive it even, and still not really know. There’s nothing like paying for the damn thing to fully understand what one has just committed oneself into.

Did it tick all the boxes? Yes it did. There is nothing to fault. But a few days into having it, I was having doubts. I placed it beside my RM 60th and Explorer 1 and while this one in theory had the biggest diameter, it wore the smallest (see pic #2). Can you imagine this 40mm sub (i think it really measures as a 39 ) wearing smaller than my 38mm RM 60th? What makes this wear small is 2 things.. case thickness and the small lume plots. I knew what the case thickness was when I bought it. I even have a spreadsheet of this spec versus others. i also knew about the small lume plots and even shared here that the perfect sub for me would have been the Kermit with the maxi dial sans the maxi case.

But here’s the strange thing. When I’m not wearing it, I think about wearing it! The other things draw me to it.. the really sharp virginal serrated edges of the bezel, the big-ish crown relative to the case, the thin, sexy unpolished bevels.. of course, wearing comfort..

So, yeah, it’s going to be an interesting relationship with this one

About the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV

The Submariner Date reference 16610LV, often recognized by its distinctive green bezel, was introduced to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner line. This particular reference stands out from the standard Submariner Date models due to its unique colorway, offering a different aesthetic while retaining the core design principles of the collection. It represents a specific period in the Submariner's evolution, bridging classic design with a celebratory touch.

This reference features a 40mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel, paired with a matching Oyster bracelet. It is equipped with the self-winding Rolex Caliber 3135, a movement known for its precision and reliability, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, and its construction ensures a water resistance rating suitable for its intended use.

For collectors, the 16610LV holds particular appeal due to its limited production run and unique bezel color, distinguishing it from other Submariner Date references. It is a notable variant within the Submariner family, offering a distinct visual identity while maintaining the robust engineering associated with the model. Its place in the lineup is marked by its anniversary significance and its departure from the traditional black bezel.

Specifications

Caliber: 3135

Case: 904L Stainless Steel

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 300m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The bezel's distinct taper, knurled teeth, and unique ratchet action are key differentiating features that set the Rolex Submariner apart from other dive watches, even for those who typically prefer other brands like Omega Seamaster.
The author reflects on his personal journey with the Submariner aesthetic, noting that it took him over 15 years to warm up to it, having previously preferred the Omega Seamaster 300 ref. 2254 for its more engaging design.
The 'exploratory phase' of watch purchasing, involving extensive research, multiple try-ons, and comparisons, is a significant part of the enjoyment, but ultimately, the full ownership experience is required to truly understand a watch's fit and appeal.

The Discussion

tomch

Mar 25, 2021

You love it.

Open your hand and enjoy!

Echi

Mar 25, 2021

I do love the process of “understanding and appreciating”. Thanks :-)

amanico

Mar 25, 2021

There is another step to be sure about your feelings on a watch: Selling it. ;) You have to t live your life with it, you will see. Just tell me you didn't sell the Air King for the Sub!

Echi

Mar 25, 2021

Hehe not selling anything unless I’m in dire financial straits. Quite happy with what I have. And if I had to sell,the AK would be the last ones to go! It’s a reminder of what’s fun about this hobby. These explorers and subs.. they’re just too serious :-)

amanico

Mar 25, 2021

Yes, well, the Sub at least. The Explorer can still be a funny watch. But the AK is the King! ;)

Echi

Mar 25, 2021

Hehe true. This year will be a year of wearing. Last year was all about the hunt. It’s going to be a good year in spite of the times :-)