History of the 1991 Submariner Rolex

The 1991 Rolex Submariner, also known as the “16610,” holds a significant place in the history of the iconic dive watch. Released in 1990, it marked a transition in the Submariner lineage, introducing new design elements and advancements that would shape the model’s future.

Release Date and Significance

The 1991 Submariner, officially designated as the reference 16610, was introduced in 1990. This release marked a pivotal moment in the Submariner’s evolution, as it replaced the previous reference 16800, which had been in production since 1980. The 16610 brought with it several key improvements and design updates that solidified its position as a highly sought-after timepiece. It also marked a significant step in the Submariner’s journey towards becoming the iconic dive watch it is today.

Design Features, 1991 submariner rolex

The 1991 Submariner boasted several distinctive design features that set it apart from its predecessors:

Dial

The dial of the 1991 Submariner featured a clean and legible design, characterized by:

  • Large, luminous hour markers: These markers were filled with a luminous material called tritium, which provided excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
  • Date window at 3 o’clock: The date window was integrated seamlessly into the dial, offering a practical and elegant way to display the date.
  • “Maxi Dial”: This feature, introduced in the late 1980s, featured larger hour markers and hands for improved readability.
  • “Submariner” inscription: The inscription “Submariner” was prominently displayed above the date window.

Case

The 1991 Submariner’s case was a testament to Rolex’s commitment to robust construction and water resistance:

  • 40mm Oyster case: The iconic Oyster case, known for its durability and water resistance, was the cornerstone of the Submariner’s design.
  • Uni-directional rotating bezel: The bezel, featuring a black ceramic insert, allowed divers to accurately track their dive time.
  • Triplock crown: The Triplock crown system, featuring a triple gasket seal, ensured exceptional water resistance.

Movement

The 1991 Submariner was powered by the reliable and robust Rolex Caliber 3135 movement:

  • Automatic winding: The Caliber 3135 featured an automatic winding mechanism, ensuring the watch was constantly powered.
  • Chronometer certification: The movement was certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), guaranteeing high levels of accuracy and precision.
  • Date function: The movement included a date function, displayed through the date window at 3 o’clock.

Comparison with Earlier and Later Models

The 1991 Submariner, while sharing many similarities with earlier and later models, also possessed unique characteristics:

Comparison with Earlier Models

  • Larger dial and hands: Compared to earlier Submariner models, the 1991 model featured a “Maxi Dial” with larger hour markers and hands for enhanced readability.
  • Ceramic bezel insert: The 1991 Submariner introduced a black ceramic bezel insert, replacing the aluminum insert found on earlier models. Ceramic inserts are more scratch-resistant and fade-resistant.
  • Triplock crown: The Triplock crown system, featuring a triple gasket seal, provided superior water resistance compared to earlier models.

Comparison with Later Models

  • Tritium lume: The 1991 Submariner utilized tritium for its luminous material, which was replaced with Superluminova in later models. Tritium has a slightly greenish glow, while Superluminova emits a brighter blue-green light.
  • No “Swiss Made” inscription: Unlike later models, the 1991 Submariner did not feature the “Swiss Made” inscription on the dial.
  • Solid caseback: The 1991 Submariner featured a solid caseback, while later models introduced a sapphire crystal caseback for viewing the movement.

Notable Features of the 1991 Submariner Rolex

The 1991 Submariner Rolex, a timepiece that embodies the spirit of exploration and precision, boasts a collection of notable features that set it apart as a diving watch par excellence. These features, carefully engineered to enhance functionality and durability, have cemented the Submariner’s legacy as a timeless icon.

The “Maxi” Dial

The 1991 Submariner introduced the “Maxi” dial, a design that significantly enhanced readability underwater. The “Maxi” dial features larger hour markers, larger hands, and a larger date window, all contributing to improved visibility in low-light conditions. This enhancement was a direct response to feedback from professional divers who emphasized the need for clear and easily discernible timekeeping, even in challenging underwater environments.

The Sapphire Crystal

The 1991 Submariner marked a significant advancement in the world of diving watches by incorporating a sapphire crystal. Sapphire crystal, renowned for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, provided superior protection to the watch face compared to the acrylic crystals used in previous models. This innovation ensured that the watch’s timekeeping capabilities remained unaffected, even in the face of harsh underwater conditions.

The Triplock Crown

The Triplock crown, a hallmark of the 1991 Submariner, is a testament to Rolex’s commitment to water resistance. This triple-sealed crown system features a series of gaskets and a screw-down mechanism that effectively prevents water from entering the watch case. The Triplock crown, combined with the robust case construction, ensures a water resistance rating of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet), making the 1991 Submariner a reliable companion for deep-sea exploration.

Materials Used in Construction

The 1991 Submariner is meticulously crafted using high-quality materials known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. The case and bracelet are made from 904L stainless steel, an exceptionally corrosion-resistant alloy that surpasses the durability of traditional stainless steel. This choice of material ensures that the watch can withstand the rigors of underwater use and remain resistant to the corrosive effects of saltwater.

The 1991 Submariner Rolex in Popular Culture

The 1991 Submariner Rolex, with its timeless design and enduring reputation for quality, has found its way into the fabric of popular culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and even books. Its presence in these mediums has not only solidified its status as a symbol of luxury and adventure but also contributed to its enduring popularity and desirability.

Appearances in Movies and Television Shows

The 1991 Submariner Rolex has been featured in numerous films and television shows, often worn by characters who embody strength, sophistication, and a sense of adventure.

  • In the James Bond film *GoldenEye* (1995), Pierce Brosnan’s portrayal of Agent 007 wears a 1991 Submariner Rolex with a black dial and a date function. This association with the iconic secret agent further cemented the watch’s reputation as a symbol of coolness and style.
  • The popular television series *Miami Vice* (1984-1989), known for its stylish depiction of 1980s culture, frequently featured characters wearing the 1991 Submariner Rolex, further amplifying its association with a sophisticated and adventurous lifestyle.
  • The 1991 Submariner Rolex has also been featured in other notable films, such as *The Wolf of Wall Street* (2013), where Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Jordan Belfort wears a 1991 Submariner Rolex as a symbol of his wealth and success.

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