2016 Rolex Submariner Date Configurations

Introduced in 1953, the Submariner Date has become one of the most recognizable Rolex models in the world. Its 60-minute graduated bezel, now made using the watchmaker's patented Cerachrom insert, combines form and function to create a useful tool watch underwater that can also go with you anywhere on land. Rolex offers its most iconic dive watch in stainless steel, two tone and gold configurations, with dials and bezels in either blue, green or black. 

2016 Stainless Steel Submariner Date (Reference # 116610LV) (photo: Rolex/James Higginson)

In stainless steel, the Submariner Date comes with either a green dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116610LV) or a black dial with black bezel (Reference # 116610LN). The green configuration, known as the 'Hulk' by some, is shown in the photo above. The combination of stainless steel with green seems odd at first glance, but this version is very popular amongst enthusiasts. The dial has a sunray finish that looks particularly resplendent in the sun. The 904L steel of the case and Oyster bracelet have a satin finish and the Oysterlock clasp features the Glidelock extension system that adds 20mm to the bracelet in increments of 2mm.

In terms of precious metal configurations, Rolex offers the Submariner Date in either white or yellow gold or a combination of yellow gold and stainless steel, referred to as Rolesor. The photo below shows the white gold version with a blue dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116619LB) on the left, the yellow gold/black dial and bezel combo (Reference # 116618LN) in the middle and the two tone stainless/yellow gold Rolesor with blue dial/bezel combination (Reference # 116613LB) on the right. Aside from those shown in the photo, the watchmaker also offers a yellow gold Sub Date with a blue dial and bezel combo (Reference # 116618LN) and the two tone Rolesor with a black dial and bezel combination (Reference # 116613LN).

2016 Gold Rolex Submariner Date Configurations (photo: Rolex/Seref Yucar)

Equipped with a 3135 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured in-house, the Submariner Date features a depth rating of 300 meters and a power reserve of 48 hours. The precious metal configurations feature polished center links on the bracelet. Its 40mm case is sealed with a screw down Triplock winding crown, ensuring a watertight seal. Its hands and hour markers contain Cromalight appliqués that make it highly legible underwater or in darker environments.

The stainless steel Submariner Date configurations dominate the market, but the yellow gold and Rolesor versions compliment the nautical blue dial and bezel spectacularly. The white gold version is known as the 'Smurf' by some and is also a favorite amongst those who don't like yellow gold watches. Anyone who is looking for a solid and simple dive watch with a classic aesthetic should look no further than the Sub. The watchmaker offers a Submariner without a date function for those who like a cleaner dial display. And if the Cyclops magnifying lens is a deal-breaker for you, check out the Sea-Dweller 4000, a 40mm dive watch made by Rolex that has a date function without the magnification lens.

After decades on the market with very few changes to its aesthetic and functionality, the Submariner Date has proven to be a reliable dive watch. Its consistency has also helped keep its resale value high, something that is important to those who tend to flip watches in their collections. For more information on the archetype of the diver's watch, visit the watchmaker's official website at rolex.com.

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