Make: Rolex
Model: Submariner ‘Swiss only’
Reference: 16610
Year: 1999
Movement: Automatic
Box and papers: Yes, full set
Case: 40mm steel
Dial: Black ‘Swiss only’ transitional dial
Bracelet/Strap: Steel Oyster bracelet
Condition: Excellent, neo-vintage
Serviced: June 2025
Warranty: 6 month RHW warranty
Rare Swiss-Only Dial
Since its debut in 1953, the Rolex Submariner has set the benchmark for diving watches, combining robustness, functionality, and timeless style. By the 1990s, the Submariner had become not only a professional tool watch but also one of the most coveted symbols of luxury worldwide.
This particular reference, the 16610, is already a classic in its own right. But what sets this 1999 example apart is its rare Swiss-only dial, a transitional feature that makes it highly sought after among collectors.
Why You’ll Love It
• Swiss-Only Dial: Produced for an exceptionally short period between 1999 and 2000, these dials marked Rolex’s transition from tritium lume (“Swiss-T<25”) to LumiNova. Featuring only the word “SWISS” at 6 o’clock, they are one of the scarcest dial variations of the Submariner.
• Immaculate Condition: This example is in outstanding shape, presenting as close to new as a 25-year-old watch can be.
• Full Set: Complete with original box, papers, and accessories, adding to its collectability and long-term value.
• Classic 40mm Oyster case in stainless steel with unidirectional rotating bezel.
• Black dial and bezel insert, the quintessential Submariner look, versatile for any occasion.
• Offered at £7,750, a superb price for such a rare and well-preserved Submariner.
Iconic Status
The Rolex Submariner has been worn by some of the most recognisable names in history, from James Bond (Sean Connery, Roger Moore) to cultural icons like Steve McQueen, Robert Redford, and David Beckham. The “Swiss-only” dial variant, however, elevates this watch beyond celebrity status—it is a genuine collector’s piece, representing a fleeting chapter in Rolex’s production history.
Ready to Make It Yours?
For £7,750, this 1999 Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 with its rare Swiss-only dial offers collectors the chance to secure one of the most desirable transitional references in immaculate condition.
Visit us at our new home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.
Buy online or book a private appointment to view this watch in person. Flexible payment options include:
• Apple Pay and all major debit and credit cards, payable directly on our website or your mobile device
• Bank transfers for a seamless transaction
• Secure email payment links for added convenience
• In-person card payments available in-store and by private appointment
• Book a private appointment via our website
As with all our watches, this Rolex has been checked against the Watch Register, ensuring it has not been reported lost or stolen. A Watch Register certificate is included for your peace of mind.
A pristine Submariner with one of the rarest dial configurations ever produced—an essential addition for any serious Rolex collector.
Make: Rolex
Model: Submariner ‘Swiss only’
Reference: 16610
Year: 1999
Movement: Automatic
Box and papers: Yes, full set
Case: 40mm steel
Dial: Black ‘Swiss only’ transitional dial
Bracelet/Strap: Steel Oyster bracelet
Condition: Excellent, neo-vintage
Serviced: June 2025
Warranty: 6 month RHW warranty
Rare Swiss-Only Dial
Since its debut in 1953, the Rolex Submariner has set the benchmark for diving watches, combining robustness, functionality, and timeless style. By the 1990s, the Submariner had become not only a professional tool watch but also one of the most coveted symbols of luxury worldwide.
This particular reference, the 16610, is already a classic in its own right. But what sets this 1999 example apart is its rare Swiss-only dial, a transitional feature that makes it highly sought after among collectors.
Why You’ll Love It
• Swiss-Only Dial: Produced for an exceptionally short period between 1999 and 2000, these dials marked Rolex’s transition from tritium lume (“Swiss-T<25”) to LumiNova. Featuring only the word “SWISS” at 6 o’clock, they are one of the scarcest dial variations of the Submariner.
• Immaculate Condition: This example is in outstanding shape, presenting as close to new as a 25-year-old watch can be.
• Full Set: Complete with original box, papers, and accessories, adding to its collectability and long-term value.
• Classic 40mm Oyster case in stainless steel with unidirectional rotating bezel.
• Black dial and bezel insert, the quintessential Submariner look, versatile for any occasion.
• Offered at £7,750, a superb price for such a rare and well-preserved Submariner.
Iconic Status
The Rolex Submariner has been worn by some of the most recognisable names in history, from James Bond (Sean Connery, Roger Moore) to cultural icons like Steve McQueen, Robert Redford, and David Beckham. The “Swiss-only” dial variant, however, elevates this watch beyond celebrity status—it is a genuine collector’s piece, representing a fleeting chapter in Rolex’s production history.
Ready to Make It Yours?
For £7,750, this 1999 Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 with its rare Swiss-only dial offers collectors the chance to secure one of the most desirable transitional references in immaculate condition.
Visit us at our new home inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.
Buy online or book a private appointment to view this watch in person. Flexible payment options include:
• Apple Pay and all major debit and credit cards, payable directly on our website or your mobile device
• Bank transfers for a seamless transaction
• Secure email payment links for added convenience
• In-person card payments available in-store and by private appointment
• Book a private appointment via our website
As with all our watches, this Rolex has been checked against the Watch Register, ensuring it has not been reported lost or stolen. A Watch Register certificate is included for your peace of mind.
A pristine Submariner with one of the rarest dial configurations ever produced—an essential addition for any serious Rolex collector.
