The Rolex Submariner, a watch synonymous with diving prowess and enduring style, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2003 with a limited-edition release that has since become a grail watch for collectors worldwide. This iconic timepiece, often referred to as the "Rolex 50th Anniversary Submariner" or simply the "50th Anniversary Blue," commands significant attention and high prices in the secondary market, exceeding $113,000+ in many cases. This article delves deep into the history, features, value, and enduring allure of this discontinued masterpiece, addressing various aspects including its price, reviews, and even the captivating story behind the "Kermit" Bertolli photographs.
The Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary Edition: A Legacy Forged in Time
The year 2003 marked a significant milestone for Rolex and its legendary Submariner. To commemorate half a century of underwater exploration and horological excellence, Rolex unveiled a special edition – the 16610LV, affectionately nicknamed "Kermit" due to its striking green bezel insert. However, a less widely known but equally coveted variant existed: the 16610, featuring a blue dial and a black bezel. This often-overlooked blue-dial version shares the same significance as its green counterpart, representing the pinnacle of Submariner design at that time. Both models, however, are now discontinued, fueling their desirability and escalating their value in the collector's market.
The 50th-anniversary Submariner, regardless of dial color, stands as a testament to Rolex's commitment to quality and innovation. It incorporated several key features that solidified its position as a collector's item:
* The Caliber 3135 Movement: This self-winding mechanical movement, a hallmark of Rolex's expertise, offered exceptional accuracy, reliability, and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Its robustness and precision are legendary, contributing to the watch's enduring appeal.
* Oyster Case: The iconic Oyster case, a symbol of Rolex’s waterproof design, protected the movement from the elements. Its robust construction, combined with the Triplock winding crown, ensured water resistance to a depth of 300 meters (1,000 feet).
* Sapphire Crystal: The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protected the dial and hands from damage, ensuring the watch's pristine appearance even after years of wear.
* Superluminova: The hands and hour markers were generously coated with Superluminova, providing exceptional legibility in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for a diver's watch.
* The Iconic Design: The overall design retained the classic Submariner aesthetic, with its distinctive unidirectional rotating bezel, broad arrow hands, and date window at 3 o'clock. The subtle yet significant differences, such as the special anniversary engravings or the dial color, set it apart from standard production models.
Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary Price: A Reflection of Rarity and Demand
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