Rolex Submariner 16610, Cal.3135, 1997

£6,500.00

A clean Rolex Submariner reference 16610 dating to 1997, featuring the highly desirable "Swiss Only" dial and presented in superb mechanical and cosmetic condition.

Produced for only a short period between tritium and Super-LumiNova production, Swiss Only dials are among the most collectible variations of the five-digit Submariner. Identified by the simple "SWISS" signature beneath the 6 o'clock marker, these transitional dials were manufactured for only around one year, making them a sought-after detail among collectors of neo-vintage Rolex sports models.

This example has just been professionally serviced and lightly refinished, leaving the case clean and well-defined while retaining only the lightest signs of careful wear - mainly around the clasp where there are many marks. The classic black bezel insert remains in good condition with only a few scuffs, beautifully complementing the crisp matte black Swiss Only dial.

Powering the watch is Rolex's legendary calibre 3135 automatic movement, renowned for its robustness, accuracy and ease of servicing. It is running exactly as it should following its recent service.

The watch is fitted to its original Rolex Oyster bracelet with the desirable full-size 12-link configuration, offering excellent wrist presence and flexibility for larger wrists.

A superb example of one of Rolex's defining dive watches, combining everyday usability with genuine collector appeal.

Specifications

  • Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner

  • Reference: 16610

  • Serial dates to 1997

  • 40mm stainless steel case (excluding crown)

  • Original Swiss Only dial

  • Original black bezel insert

  • Rolex calibre 3135 automatic movement

  • Recently serviced

  • Fresh professional polish

  • Original Rolex Oyster bracelet

  • Full-size bracelet with 12 links

  • Watch only

What is a Swiss Only Dial?

Swiss Only dials were produced for a brief transitional period around 1998, sitting between Rolex's tritium dials and the later Super-LumiNova versions. Instead of "T SWISS T" or "SWISS MADE", the dial is simply signed "SWISS" beneath the 6 o'clock marker. Because they were manufactured for such a short time, they have become one of the most desirable dial variations found on late five-digit Rolex sports watches.

Condition

Presented in excellent overall condition. The case has recently received a light professional refinish and retains crisp lines with only minor signs of wear remaining. The bezel insert is clean, the Swiss Only dial is excellent, and the movement has just been serviced, ensuring reliable performance. The original full-length Oyster bracelet remains in very good condition and completes this outstanding neo-vintage Submariner.

A clean Rolex Submariner reference 16610 dating to 1997, featuring the highly desirable "Swiss Only" dial and presented in superb mechanical and cosmetic condition.

Produced for only a short period between tritium and Super-LumiNova production, Swiss Only dials are among the most collectible variations of the five-digit Submariner. Identified by the simple "SWISS" signature beneath the 6 o'clock marker, these transitional dials were manufactured for only around one year, making them a sought-after detail among collectors of neo-vintage Rolex sports models.

This example has just been professionally serviced and lightly refinished, leaving the case clean and well-defined while retaining only the lightest signs of careful wear - mainly around the clasp where there are many marks. The classic black bezel insert remains in good condition with only a few scuffs, beautifully complementing the crisp matte black Swiss Only dial.

Powering the watch is Rolex's legendary calibre 3135 automatic movement, renowned for its robustness, accuracy and ease of servicing. It is running exactly as it should following its recent service.

The watch is fitted to its original Rolex Oyster bracelet with the desirable full-size 12-link configuration, offering excellent wrist presence and flexibility for larger wrists.

A superb example of one of Rolex's defining dive watches, combining everyday usability with genuine collector appeal.

Specifications

  • Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner

  • Reference: 16610

  • Serial dates to 1997

  • 40mm stainless steel case (excluding crown)

  • Original Swiss Only dial

  • Original black bezel insert

  • Rolex calibre 3135 automatic movement

  • Recently serviced

  • Fresh professional polish

  • Original Rolex Oyster bracelet

  • Full-size bracelet with 12 links

  • Watch only

What is a Swiss Only Dial?

Swiss Only dials were produced for a brief transitional period around 1998, sitting between Rolex's tritium dials and the later Super-LumiNova versions. Instead of "T SWISS T" or "SWISS MADE", the dial is simply signed "SWISS" beneath the 6 o'clock marker. Because they were manufactured for such a short time, they have become one of the most desirable dial variations found on late five-digit Rolex sports watches.

Condition

Presented in excellent overall condition. The case has recently received a light professional refinish and retains crisp lines with only minor signs of wear remaining. The bezel insert is clean, the Swiss Only dial is excellent, and the movement has just been serviced, ensuring reliable performance. The original full-length Oyster bracelet remains in very good condition and completes this outstanding neo-vintage Submariner.