Rolex Submariner 116610LV vs. Vintage Subs
Review

Rolex Submariner 116610LV vs. Vintage Subs

By Subexplorer · Feb 9, 2014 · 27 replies
Subexplorer
WPS member · Rolex forum
27 replies9876 views7 photos
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Subexplorer's post offers a compelling comparison between his modern Rolex Ceramic Submariner (Ref. 116610) and his cherished vintage Submariners. His detailed observations on size, weight, and aesthetic differences provide invaluable insights for collectors weighing the merits of contemporary versus classic Rolex dive watches. This discussion is particularly relevant for those who appreciate the evolution of an iconic reference while holding a soft spot for heritage pieces.

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Inspired by the enthusiastic reports of our dear friend Baron with the latest rendition of Rolex classic GMT, I decided to give another try to my Ceramic Submariner green dial.(Ref 116610)

I bought this watch a few years ago, one of the first to reach my Country. I liked the timepiece very much, specially the highly polish finish, and the ceramic bezel. The watch is very impressive indeed, and it exudes quality at every angle you look at it.

And though I´m not a technique expert, I have no doubt that the movement, new stainless steel and water proof quality are all characteristics highly improved with reference to previous offerings of the Submariner model. The new bracelet and adjusting and closing system is a work of art.

In spite of all these positive impressions this watch gave me, I never could fell in love as I fell with my previous models. It is no secret that I love Submariners, but I am specially fond of the vintage ones, like my 5508, 5513 and 1680. Thus the new Sub in my collection received very little use.

I get such a different feeling wearing one of the oldies on my wrist! They are lighter in weight, and feel much smaller, though the new Submariner is not really much bigger. Not to mention the charming qualities of a vintage, their patina, etc.

I tried the Ceramic Sub during all this week end, together with my old 1680 Red Sub, and my 16613 TT Submariner, which I weared on my right wrist (under my shirt cuff to avoid any funny question from onlookers!)

The Ceramic looks bigger mainly due to the thicker crown guards, and thick lugs, otherwise the lug span is the same in the three brothers: 47,5 mm. And the diameter of its bezel keeps the same 40 mm of the 16613.

The watches got a difference in the width between tips of lugs: 25 mm in the 1680 and 16613 and 28 mm in the Ceramic version.

Tips of lugs is thicker too: 2,8 mm on the 1680, 3 mm on the 16613 and 4 mm on the Ceramic version.  This also contributes to the "bigger" image of the new watch.

Weights are 104 grams for the 1680, 149 grams for the 16613TT, and 151 grams for the Ceramic. When you are accustomed to wear a 5513 and a 1680 for more that 40 years like me, you really feel the difference in weight!

I´m happy Rolex didn´t follow the trend of making the new Submariner a much bigger timepiece, as I feel the measures of the original model 5513/1680 are the ideal ones. I do not really like the trend of the last years of bigger and bigger watches.

I will keep wearing my Ceramic Submariner during the next week, and will try to get to love it as much as I love its old brothers. It is a great watch though it definitively lacks the charm of a vintage Submariner.

My previous scuba diving watch was my 14060M as I didn´t wish to risk any of my vintage Subs. I think the Ceramic Sub will be an ideal diving companion to replace that one.

I wish you´ll enjoy the pictures!
Best cordial regards, Abel.

































This message has been edited by Subexplorer on 2014-02-09 16:39:29

About the Rolex Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680

The Rolex Submariner reference 1680 is notable as the first Submariner model to feature a date complication, marking a significant evolution for the line. Introduced in the late 1960s, it bridged the gap between the earlier no-date Submariners and later iterations, offering enhanced functionality while retaining the robust characteristics of the professional tool watch. This reference is distinguished by its single cyclops date magnifier on the crystal, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent Rolex models.

This reference typically features a 40mm steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 1575 movement. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The crystal is acrylic, commonly referred to as Plexiglas, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. Water resistance for the 1680 is rated at 200 meters, consistent with its design as a reliable underwater instrument.

For collectors, the reference 1680 is highly sought after, particularly early examples with "Red Submariner" dials where the word "Submariner" is printed in red. These variants represent a distinct period in Rolex's production history and are prized for their rarity and aesthetic appeal. The 1680 appeals to those who appreciate the blend of historical significance, functional design, and the tangible qualities of vintage Rolex manufacturing.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal.1575
Case
steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic (Plexiglas)

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
SU
Subexplorer
Feb 9, 2014
Well... I guess the other Submariners mentioned...

... deserve some wrist scans too! Here they are: 1680 Red, and 16613TT. I find the color of this dial, the most amazing blue of any watch ever. I bought this watch brand new, when I learned it was discontinued and replaced by the new ceramic blue version, which I personally do not like as much as this one. Of course, it is only a very subjective and personal view, but I love this deep cobalt blue color so much! This picture was taken just after taking the new watch from its box, so the transpare

FR
FrancisV
Feb 12, 2014
Excellent review, Abel!

Thank you so much for such a complete and interesting post. It is very useful to me, and at the same time a guide to learn about modern Subs. I am so focused on vintage that I still could not get involved in detail with the new models. I never had in my hands the green ceramic one but it looks stunning in your, as usual, great photographs! Un gran abrazo!

SU
Subexplorer
Feb 13, 2014
Thank you FrancisV! mi amigo! Sorry your message escape from,,,

,,, my view somehow! Glad you like it and I´m happy my post can give you some insight about new versions of an old classic. It sure deserves your attention! Will keep in touch my friend! Un abrazo. Kind regards, Abel.

BI
Bill
Feb 9, 2014
Rolex Submariner 116610 Green Ceramic - I am really jealous

Why do you make these temptations. So much to love about this one and all the modern conveniences and a very nice dive companion. I just had my Omega 600 Ploprof certified for 200 meters which is good for a vintage but you always run risks. I am jealous. best Bill

SU
Subexplorer
Feb 10, 2014
Lol! Don´t be jealous my dear friend! You got a great collection!...

... and yes, I´ve been using my old 1977 1680 Sub for scuba diving till a few years ago, but I decided it is not necessary to risk it anymore. Glad to know about your Omega being certified, but I personally wouldn´t risk it if it were mine, though I understand that retiring them from these activities means less enjoyment of these beautiful instruments. Thank you for your kind comments! Very cordially, Abel.

ED
Edz
Feb 9, 2014
Great post.

All your Subs are beautiful but the Red 1680 is something else.

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