The Rolex Submariner Date reference 16610, particularly those with tritium dials, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its blend of iconic design, robust functionality, and a touch of vintage charm makes it a highly sought-after piece, commanding significant prices in the collector's market. This article delves deep into the world of the Rolex Submariner 16610 tritium dial, examining its history, features, value, and what makes it such a compelling investment.
The listing we begin with – a Rolex Submariner Date 16610, unpolished, with a tritium dial, priced at C$14,439 – serves as a perfect starting point. This price reflects the current market demand for well-preserved examples of this particular reference. The fact that it's unpolished is crucial; the preservation of the original factory finish significantly impacts value, as we will explore further. Let's break down the key elements influencing the price and desirability of this specific watch, and the broader 16610 market.
Understanding the Rolex Submariner 16610:
The Rolex Submariner 16610, produced from 1989 to 2010, represents a significant chapter in the Submariner's history. It succeeded the 5513 and preceded the current generation, the 116610. The 16610 is characterized by its 40mm Oyster case, sapphire crystal, and the iconic date window at 3 o'clock. However, a key differentiator, especially for collectors, is the lume.
Early 16610 models, like the one in our example, featured tritium lume. Tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, was used by Rolex until the late 1990s, when it was replaced by LumiNova. Tritium lume emits a characteristic creamy, warm glow in the dark, different from the brighter, cooler glow of LumiNova. This subtle difference is a highly sought-after feature among collectors, contributing significantly to the watch's value and desirability. The "creamy" patina of aged tritium is a hallmark of these vintage pieces, and its unique color and evenness are highly prized. Uneven or discolored tritium can, however, detract from the value.
Rolex Submariner 16610 Price Chart & Market Analysis:
The price of a Rolex Submariner 16610, particularly one with a tritium dial, fluctuates based on several factors. A comprehensive Rolex 16610 price chart would consider:
* Dial Condition: As mentioned, the condition of the tritium lume is paramount. Even, creamy patina is highly desirable. Any damage, discoloration, or unevenness will significantly affect the price.
* Case Condition: The condition of the case, including the presence of scratches, dings, or polishing, greatly influences value. Unpolished examples, as in our listed example, are generally more valuable than those that have been polished, as polishing removes the original factory finish.
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