16,610: The Rolex 16610 was introduced in 1988 or 1989 and produced until 2010, then it was discontinued.  The 16610 has an aluminum bezel, just like other previous versions of the Submariner. This aluminum version has a softer mate finish or older vintage look. this aluminum version is easier to scratch or dent. this version also came with glow in the dark green luminous features. The 16610 also has an aluminum bezel which rotates by a single spring action. This however, created difficulties when seating the bezel correctly. The 16610 was then replaced with the 116610 Submariner Date version. Bracelet:The 16610 has a standard steel bracelet. 116,610: So with the introduction of the 116610 the bezel problem was solved. The bezel was made from a new material called Cerachrom ceramic  this new type of Cerachrom finish was harder to scratch and fading from UV rays or checmicals. the bezel was basically made from a much stronger type of ceramic keeping the watch looking nicer over the years. The 116610 also has a Chromalight feature which has a glow in the dark blue color. Chromalight actually looks brighter although its really isn't. it just looks brighter because of the way it was designed. This Reference has thicker lugs, larger crown guards about twice larger than the previous Reference. The 116610 also has a wider bezel and it also has a Maxi Dial. Bracelet: Has a 904L Oystersteel bracelet, which has center links. It also has the Glidelock feature, which allows the wearer to adjust the bracelet up to 5mm without having to use to any tools to adjust the bracelet. Both Reference 116610 and 16610 measure 40 mm, come with a black dial and lume markers. They both also have a cyclopse window over the date and has what is referred to as Mercedes hands. however, the 116610 looks larger due to the larger sized crown guard and its larger lugs. The 116610 Reference usually cost about $2,500 more mainly because of it's modern features. The 16610 can prove difficult to find and if you do find one, it will more than like be used, since it has been discontinued since 2010.

Ref Variations: 116610,116610L,116610LV,

By: Jaime Hernandez