The Rolex Submariner is considered by many to be Rolex's most popular model. Proven as both an exceptional timepiece and a staple investment, the Rolex Submariner has transcended watchmaking. Today we look at the differences between the first-ever produced Rolex "Date Submariner" (Ref. 1680) vs its more recent successors, the 16610, the 116610, and the 126610.

Through the years, Rolex has made both subtle changes and intricate design updates to the watch's movement and exterior. With our comprehensive comparison below, you will find an ultimate guide on the many differences and innovations between all references.

Shop Rolex Submariner Watches

The Ultimate Guide: Differences Between the Rolex Submariner Date Watches

From the first Submariner model with a date, the Rolex Submariner has seen a series of innovations and upgrades that have cemented its position as an iconic luxury watch. In this guide, we will explore the differences and innovations across four major references: 1680, 16610, 116610, and 126610.

1. Rolex Submariner 1680 (Late 1960s - 1970s)

• Case size: 40mm.
• Bracelet: 20mm.
• Crown guard: None initially, later models featured crown guards.
• Caliber movement: Caliber 1575.
• Dial changes: The first Rolex Submariner model to feature a date. Initially, had a red "Submariner" logo, later shifted to white.
• Lume: Tritium.
• Rehaut: No engraved rehaut.
• Easy/Smart Link: Not present.
• Glidelock Clasp: Not present.
• Retail price: Originally sold for a few hundred dollars.
• Secondary market price: Can fetch between $10,000 to $15,000 (can reach as high as $40,000 or more, especially for the "Red Sub" variants).

2. Rolex Submariner 16610 (1989 - 2010)

Buy a Rolex Submariner 16610

• Case size: 40mm.
• Bracelet: 20mm, Oyster with solid end-links in later models.
• Crown guard: More refined than 1680.
• Caliber movement: Caliber 3135.
• Dial changes: Black dial with white "Submariner" logo.
• Lume: Tritium initially, replaced with SuperLuminova in late 1990s.
• Rehaut: No engraved rehaut until around 2007, after which it began featuring the ROLEX rehaut.
• Easy/Smart Link: Not present.
• Glidelock Clasp: Not present.
• Retail price: Began around $2,000 in the early 90s.
• Secondary market price: Approximately $8,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the condition and specific year.

3. Rolex Submariner 116610 (2010 - 2020)

Buy a Rolex Submariner 116610LN

• Case size: 40mm, but introduced the "Super Case" with thicker lugs and crown guards.
• Bracelet: 20mm, Oyster with solid links.
• Crown guard: Thicker, part of the "Super Case" design.
• Caliber movement: Caliber 3135.
• Dial changes: Introduced the "Maxi Dial" with larger hour markers.
• Lume: Chromalight, providing a blue glow.
• Rehaut: Features the ROLEX rehaut with a serial number.
• Easy/Smart Link: Introduced for fine adjustments without tools.
• Glidelock Clasp: Introduced in this model, allowing for easy adjustment.
• Retail price: Around $7,500 initially.
• Secondary market price: Ranges from $11,000 to $12,000 or more (pending if original box and papers are available)

4. Rolex Submariner 126610 (2020 - Present)

Buy a Rolex Submariner 126610

• Case size: 41mm.
• Bracelet: Slightly broader, complementing the larger case.
• Crown guard: More streamlined, compared to the 116610.
• Caliber movement: New Caliber 3235, with improved power reserve and efficiency.
• Dial changes: Maintained the "Maxi Dial".
• Lume: Chromalight.
• Rehaut: Features the ROLEX rehaut with a serial number.
• Easy/Smart Link: Introduced for fine adjustments without tools.
• Glidelock Clasp: Continued from previous model.
• Retail price: Started around $9,000.
• Secondary market price: Ranges from $13,000 - $15,000+

Rolex Submariner Date Models Comparison

From the introduction of the date feature in the 1680 to the modern advancements in the 126610, the Rolex Submariner Date has seen numerous upgrades in design, movement, and features. Each reference carries its unique appeal and place in horological history. The watch's evolution over the decades underscores Rolex's commitment to innovation while maintaining the Submariner's core aesthetic and function.