Rolex Submariner Date “Kermit” Mark 1 Flat Four New-Old-Stock Collector Grade Stickered 2003 16610LV

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AUD $58,000

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Description

The reference 16610LV was released in 2003 to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of the world’s most iconic watch, the Rolex Submariner. Green is the colour of Rolex, and to mark the very special occasion Rolex chose to use the colour on the bezel for this watch. It was a first for the brand, and made this watch the most distinctive Submariner to ever be released at the time.

While still retaining the comparatively slender dimensions of the pre-modern Submariner range, the 16610LV marked the introduction of the “maxi-dial” now seen on all modern Submariners which features larger luminous plots on the dial and hands as well as a number of other tiny detail changes. It’s a watch that is in many ways caught between two eras.

The 16610LV reference was produced for 7 years between 2003-2010 and, in true Rolex fashion, featured a number of small design changes over its lifetime. Early versions of the watch within the Y94-F54 serial range have become extraordinarily collectable, and this example we’re offering for your consideration sits at the absolute pinnacle. 

This watch was manufactured in 2003 – the very first year of release – and as a result features the most desirable set of characteristics only found on these early examples. As any serious Rolex collector will tell you, the details are everything when it comes to buying these holy grail, investment-level timepieces.

This watch is a “Mark 1” version, meaning (to name just one small detail for brevity) that the “Swiss Made” text at the bottom of the dial extends past the 32nd and 28th minute markers. Some collectors also refer to this as a “Long Swiss” dial.

It also has a “Flat Four” bezel, where the top of the “4” digit on the bezel is flattened, as opposed to the pointy four seen on later versions.

Finding a “Mark 1 Flat Four” version of the 16610LV is already extremely difficult, but to find one in New Old Stock (NOS) condition is nigh impossible. This particular example is in brand-new, unworn condition with all factory stickers still on the watch along with the plastic bezel protector, as if it was manufactured yesterday. 

The watch comes as a complete set, which includes:
<ul>
<li style="font-size: 100%;">Inner and outer Rolex boxes. The outer box still has a sticker on it with the watch’s serial number and other identifying details.</li>
<li style="font-size: 100%;">3x Rolex manuals and accompanying holding case.</li>
<li style="font-size: 100%;">Chronometer certification hang tag and Rolex Oyster Swimpruf hang tag with matching serial number.</li>
<li style="font-size: 100%;">Original warranty papers for the watch dating it to December 2003.</li>
<li style="font-size: 100%;">Plastic Rolex coffin storage box. A very rare find. These plastic boxes are what Rolex itself would ship watches to retailers in. </li>
</ul>
Something else we rarely do is talk about the condition of the box and papers. Generally speaking, the condition of box and papers shouldn’t matter, but here it deserves mentioning. The entire set is mint, just like the watch. The papers are crisp and vibrant, as if they were just printed. The box and accessories all un-scuffed and immaculate. It’s clear this watch was bought and put straight into the safe. 

Powering the watch is the COSC chronometer certified calibre 3135 with automatic winding and date function. The movement is a masterpiece of manufacturing; tough, reliable, accurate and easy to service.

Accessories

The watch comes as a complete set with box and papers.

Condition

The watch is in brand-new, unworn condition with original factory applied stickers still on the watch.

Warranty

Our company provides a one-year warranty on the watch.

Shipping

We offer free, fully-insured shipping in Australia and worldwide. We ship domestically via overnight courier and internationally via DHL/FedEx express. Exemptions may apply.

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