16610LV 50th Anniversary Submariner Kermit
May 01, 2020
At Baselworld 2003 Rolex unveiled the Submariner's 50th anniversary 16610LV timepiece. The green and black Reference 16610LV is a distant cousin of the all black Reference 16610LN but it has some differences. The Maxi dial features larger hour markers and larger hands, creating better legibility. Also the lugs are more tapered than the later cases, making it quite a bit smaller than the more bulkier cases. But most notably the "Kermit" green bezel helps this timepiece stand out from it's all - black (bezel and dial) sibling.
The interest in the Kermit is the fact that Rolex discontinued this mixed color Submariner. On the Rolex site you can see that they have gone to the all black model or the all green (Hulk). They also have the all blue version 116619LB nicknamed the "Smurf", but the mix Black and Green version is gone.
Most notably is the difference in green between the Hulk and Kermit. The green color of the Kermit is clearly darker and even appears more matted and less shiny. Whenever Rolex discontinues a Rolex model, interest soars in the model left behind. The Kermit already had good interest in it, but now that interest is heightened. It is unclear whether Rolex will ever release another Kermit model again.
Early versions of the Kermit have no engravings of the repeated "Rolex" around the inner ring of the rehaut. That didn't start appearing until 2008.
Most notably is the difference in green between the Hulk and Kermit. The green color of the Kermit is clearly darker and even appears more matted and less shiny. Whenever Rolex discontinues a Rolex model, interest soars in the model left behind. The Kermit already had good interest in it, but now that interest is heightened. It is unclear whether Rolex will ever release another Kermit model again.
The Kermit 16610LV holds a special place in the hearts of Rolex owners, primarily because the same color green is adopted by Rolex in much of its branding. The Rolex logo, the tags, the boxes and even the certification documents of authenticity are all the same dark green color.
The Kermit came out one year earlier than the actual 50 years since the first Rolex Submariner was launched in 1954. But nobody was complaining. The Kermit green bezel stands in sharp contrast to the black dial. The combination made a huge hit for Rolex, and ushered in other colors into the Submariner lineup which had traditionally been only all-black.
The Green aluminum bezel will age over time on the Kermit, creating a unique look over time. This is quite different from the Cerachrom bezels engineered to hold its identical look well into the future.
Early versions of the Kermit have no engravings of the repeated "Rolex" around the inner ring of the rehaut. That didn't start appearing until 2008.
The Kermit is made with 904L stainless steel, and is made with a standard 40mm diameter. It has 18ct gold hour luminescent hour markers and hands. It is water resistant to 1000 feet and features the Rolex Glidelock system on the band with clamshell clasp. It is powered by the caliber 3135 which has a 48 hour power reserve. Although many suspect Rolex will upgrade the caliber to a 72 hour power reserve model soon, it hasn't done so yet. As such, we know that the 3135 is a reliable and dependable timepiece that has literally stood the test of time.
The Kermit has at least tripled in value - up from its original selling price of $5,000. Considering the slimmer form factor of the Kermit, collectors will continue to drive the prices up. The Kermit had a limited 7 years of production, limiting the inventory for collectors to acquire. If Rolex does not release another Kermit option, this will continue to add fuel to the fire.
5 comments
Cool watch. My watch winder don't have this guy.Thx for your article.
ReplyDeleteThe 16610LV Kermit really marks such a pivotal shift in Rolex history! Combining classic aluminum bezel aging characteristics with the larger Maxi dial markers created the ultimate blend of vintage charm and modern legibility. When taking a break after browsing luxury watch reviews and collector guides, streaming live sports and news via xuper tv keeps unwinding quick and effortless. Great write-up on a true anniversary classic!
ReplyDeleteThat subtle olive-green aluminum bezel paired with pre-super case tapered lugs makes the original Kermit wear so much sleeker on the wrist compared to modern Cerachrom models. It is no wonder secondary market demand spiked so high once production wrapped. For watch collectors who like keeping live market broadcasts or horology streams playing on a tablet in the workshop, having the xuper tv app ready makes streaming super smooth. Thanks for sharing this breakdown!
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ReplyDeleteSpotting the subtle nuances between reference generations—like the lack of inner rehaut engraving on early 'Flat 4' Kermits—is what makes collecting five-digit Rolex references so exciting. The reliable Caliber 3135 inside remains an absolute workhorse movement. Whether relaxing at home after researching timepiece investments or streaming live TV shows on your mobile phone, installing the xuper tv apk gives you instant access to live channels anywhere. Looking forward to your next watch profile!
It is crazy to think back to when the 50th-anniversary green bezel was considered a controversial move by Rolex! Watching the Kermit evolve from a bold anniversary experiment into one of the most sought-after collector pieces in the world proves how special that green/black contrast really is. After spending the evening reading horology blogs and checking secondary market valuations, kicking back with super tv for live channels and evening shows is my favorite way to end the night. Keep these luxury watch articles coming!
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