The Rolex Submariner needs no introduction. A legend in the watchmaking world, synonymous with diving prowess and enduring style, it cemented its place in history as one of the world's first purpose-built dive watches when it debuted in 1953. To commemorate its 50th anniversary in 2003, Rolex released a truly special edition: the Submariner 16610LV, affectionately known as the "Kermit" due to its vibrant green bezel, and a rarer, less talked about blue variant. While the green Kermit has garnered significant attention and achieved iconic status, the blue Submariner 50th Anniversary remains a highly sought-after piece, a testament to its understated elegance and collectible value. This article delves into the details of this remarkable timepiece, exploring its history, design features, market value, and why it continues to fascinate collectors worldwide.
Rolex 50th Anniversary Submariner Discontinued:
The Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary edition, both the green Kermit and the less common blue dial variant, are indeed discontinued. This is a key factor contributing to their desirability and escalating prices in the secondary market. Production ceased after 2003, making them limited-edition pieces with a finite number available. This scarcity, combined with their historical significance and enduring appeal, fuels the collector market and makes finding an authentic example a rewarding, albeit potentially expensive, endeavor. The discontinuation solidifies their status as collector's items, a fact appreciated by enthusiasts and investors alike. Finding an unworn or near-mint condition example is particularly challenging and commands a significant premium.
Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary Review:
The 50th Anniversary Submariner, regardless of bezel color, represented a subtle yet significant evolution in the Submariner line. While retaining the core elements that defined its iconic status – the robust oyster case, the unidirectional rotating bezel, the highly legible dial, and the dependable automatic movement – the anniversary edition offered a refined aesthetic. The case size remained at the classic 40mm, perfectly balancing wearability and presence. The sapphire crystal offered superior scratch resistance compared to the acrylic crystals of earlier models. The dial, whether green or blue, featured a distinct color saturation and depth, enhancing its visual appeal. The luminous markers, using Rolex's proprietary luminescence, ensured excellent readability even in low-light conditions.
The movement powering the 50th Anniversary Submariner was the calibre 3135, a highly reliable and robust automatic movement known for its accuracy and longevity. This movement is a workhorse within the Rolex family, and its inclusion in this special edition underscores the brand's commitment to quality and performance. The bracelet, a classic Oyster bracelet with its solid links and comfortable clasp, further contributed to the watch's overall feel of quality and durability. The subtle details, such as the slightly updated crown guards and the refined case finishing, elevated the watch beyond a simple re-issue, making it a truly special commemoration of the Submariner's legacy.
The blue dial version, while less frequently discussed than the Kermit, boasts a similar level of quality and refinement. The deep blue hue, often described as a rich, almost midnight blue, is sophisticated and elegant. It complements the stainless steel case perfectly, creating a timeless and understated aesthetic.
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