The Rolex Submariner Date reference 16610 is the fourth-generation steel Submariner with a date function, produced from 1988 to 2010.  It is widely considered the "modern classic" Submariner, bridging the gap between vintage designs and the newer ceramic-bezel models. It features a 40mm case, an aluminum bezel insert, and the legendary Caliber 3135 movement. 

The 16610 is defined by its balanced 40mm diameter and slim profile compared to modern successors. 

• Case: 40mm Oystersteel (904L steel) with a thickness of approximately 12.8mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 47.5mm. 

• Bezel: Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel with an anodized aluminum insert (black for the standard 16610, green for the 16610LV "Kermit").  The bezel action is 120-click.

• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire with a Cyclops lens magnifying the date at 3 o'clock. 

• Water Resistance: Waterproof to 300 meters (1,000 feet) via the Triplock screw-down crown. 

• Bracelet: Fitted on a 20mm Oyster bracelet (Reference 93150 with hollow end links early on, upgraded to 93250 with solid end links in 2000).  It features a folding Oysterclasp with the Fliplock diving extension.

• Lume: Early models (pre-1999) used Tritium ("T < 25"), while later models switched to Luminova and then Super-LumiNova ("Swiss Made"). 

• Evolutionary Traits:

  • Lug Holes: Present from 1988–2002; removed in 2003 (often referred to as the "16610T" transition).

  • Rehaut: Late models (2007–2010) feature an engraved inner rehaut with the Rolex crown and serial number. 

The 16610 is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135, introduced in 1988.  It is one of the most reliable and long-serving movements in Rolex history. 

• Type: Self-winding mechanical movement. 

• Diameter: 28.5 mm.

• Jewels: 31.

• Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). 

• Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours. 

• Functions: Center hour, minute, and seconds hands; instantaneous date with rapid setting (Quickset); stop-seconds for precise time setting. 

• Key Technologies: Later production models (post-2000) were upgraded with the Parachrom hairspring, offering superior resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.