Submariner

Which Submariner should you buy?
Rolex dates the Submariner to 1953, and the design has changed slowly ever since. For a buyer today, the decision comes down to three things: date or no date, aluminum or ceramic bezel, and 40mm or 41mm.
40mm with an aluminum bezel insert: 14060M and 16610
The 14060M (no date) and the 16610 (date) are the last of the classic Submariners: a slim case, thin lugs and a painted aluminum bezel insert that fades with age. The 16610LV, with a green bezel and nicknamed "Kermit", was added in 2003 for the model's 50th anniversary.
40mm with a ceramic bezel: 116610 and 116613
Around 2010 Rolex moved the Submariner to a scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezel, a broader case and a bracelet with a Glidelock extension. The 116610LV with a green dial and green bezel is known as the "Hulk". The 116613 is the two-tone steel and yellow gold version, with a black or blue dial.
41mm current production: 126610
The 126610LN (black) and 126610LV (green bezel, often called the "Starbucks") arrived in 2020. They have a 41mm case with slimmer lugs and the caliber 3235, with a power reserve of about 70 hours. The no-date version is the 124060.
What to check on a used Submariner

Bezel insert. On older aluminum inserts, fading is normal, but a replacement insert should be disclosed. Ceramic inserts should be free of cracks and chips.
Bezel action. The dive bezel turns one way only and should click cleanly.
Case edges. Heavy polishing softens the lug bevels, and you can't undo it.
Bracelet. Older bracelets with hollow end links can stretch over time. Check the clasp too.
Water resistance. The rating applies to a watch in factory-sealed condition. On any pre-owned dive watch, ask when the seals were last checked.

Submariner FAQ
What's the difference between the 116610 and the 126610?
The 126610 is 41mm instead of 40mm, has slimmer lugs, and uses the newer caliber 3235 with a power reserve of about 70 hours. The dial and bezel layout are very similar.
What do "Kermit", "Hulk" and "Starbucks" mean?
They are collector nicknames, not Rolex names. "Kermit" is the 16610LV (green aluminum bezel, black dial), "Hulk" is the 116610LV (green ceramic bezel, green dial), and "Starbucks" is the 126610LV (green ceramic bezel, black dial).
Is a pre-owned Submariner still water-resistant?
That depends on its seals, not its rating. Ask us about the watch you're looking at. Note that our 12-month warranty covers mechanical defects and excludes water damage.
Date or no date?
The no-date Submariner has a symmetrical dial without the Cyclops lens. The date version is more practical. It's a matter of taste, and both are in our showroom to compare when stock allows.
Can I trade my watch toward a Submariner?
Yes. Send us the details through Sell your watch and ask for a trade-in offer.
Watch LA is an independent dealer and is not affiliated with or authorized by Rolex.