Rolex Submariner 16610LV Kermit - Flat Four

This Rolex Submariner reference 16610LV marks a historic milestone in the lineage of the Submariner series. It was introduced in 2003 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this iconic dive watch, paying tribute to the original model launched in 1953. As the first Submariner to feature a green bezel, it made a bold stylistic statement and was nicknamed the "Kermit" by collectors. The "LV" in the reference stands for Lunette Verte – French for "green bezel".

One particularly notable feature of this early execution is the rare "Flat 4" bezel insert. The number "40" on the green aluminum bezel is characterized by a flat-style number 4 – a typographic trait found only on the earliest production batches up until early 2005. This subtle yet distinctive detail makes these early models especially sought after by collectors and significantly enhances their value.

The black Maxi dial with oversized luminous hour markers and wider hands ensures excellent legibility and reinforces the watch's sporty, tool-watch character. Notably, Rolex officially used the term "Maxi Dial" for the first time with this reference – a term that had already been used informally by collectors for certain matte-dial Submariners from the 1970s.

This example comes as a complete and original full set – and boasts a particularly exotic provenance: it was sold on December 23, 2003, on the Caribbean island of St. Thomas, which is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The rare country code 758 on the warranty certificate confirms this exotic origin. The full set includes:
- Rolex warranty certificate (LC 758 – US Virgin Islands)
- Booklet & instruction manual
- Green leather cardholder
- Rolex calendar 2004–2005
- Submariner anchor
- Presentation box and outer carton.

The condition of this Kermit is outstanding: the case and Oyster bracelet are unpolished, with intact lines and original surface finish. The dial is flawless – the entire watch presents itself as a true collector's piece.

This "Flat Four" Kermit is much more than just a Submariner – it is a piece of Rolex history, full of character and charm. With its short production run, unique typographic bezel, complete full set, and rare LC 758 provenance, it ranks among the most desirable versions of the Submariner. A true trophy for discerning collectors.

Condition Report
Dial: flawlessly preserved – large hour markers – Super-Luminova lume – signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 1000ft=300m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified Swiss Made".

Case: 40mm stainless steel Oyster case in excellent condition – minor signs of wear – intact numbers between the lugs – rare "Flat Four" aluminum bezel insert in pristine condition.

Movement: automatic Rolex Caliber 3135 – timegrapher values: rate -8s/day, beat error 0.3 ms, amplitude 287 degrees.

Bracelet: original stainless steel Oyster bracelet in great condition – light signs of wear – reference 93250 – clasp code AD10 (2003) – complete with 12 links.

Serial number: F170xxx

Int.Exe.: 1258025