We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This vintage 1991 Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 in stainless steel showcases the iconic black dial and unidirectional bezel that defined diving watches. With its robust 40mm case and Oyster bracelet, this timepiece transitions seamlessly from underwater adventures to boardroom meetings, embodying timeless Swiss craftsmanship and enduring style.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What is the Rolex Submariner Ref. 16610 (1991)? A: It’s a classic 40mm stainless steel dive watch with a black dial, date display and unidirectional rotating bezel. The 16610 is powered by Rolex’s automatic Calibre 3135 and was originally rated to 300 metres water resistance. It comes on the robust Oyster bracelet and represents the archetypal Submariner design.
Q: Which movement does it use and what are its key features? A: The 16610 houses the Rolex Calibre 3135—an automatic, self‑winding movement with hacking seconds and a quickset date. Power reserve is approximately 48 hours. The 3135 is renowned for reliability and ease of service among professional watchmakers.
Q: What crystal, bezel and lume does a 1991 Submariner 16610 have? A: It features a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal with the Cyclops magnifier over the date, an aluminium bezel insert, and tritium luminous material on the dial and hands. Tritium dials are typically marked “Swiss‑T<25” and may show warm patina; they generally glow weakly compared with modern lume.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Submariner was originally rated to 300 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the watch has been recently serviced, re‑sealed and pressure‑tested by an authorised watchmaker. Always ensure the Triplock crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: How do I set the time and date on the 16610? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–30 turns if stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. After setting, push the crown in and screw it down firmly.
Q: How do I use the unidirectional bezel for timing? A: Align the bezel’s triangle with the minute hand at the start of your timing. As the minute hand moves, read elapsed minutes against the bezel markers. The bezel turns only anti‑clockwise for safety during diving; it’s also handy for everyday tasks such as cooking or parking meters.
Q: Will the 40mm size suit my wrist, and can the bracelet be adjusted? A: 40mm offers a versatile, medium presence that suits many wrists. We can size the Oyster bracelet for you before dispatch, and additional links may be sourced subject to availability. Most 16610 models use a 20mm lug width; if you prefer a strap, we can advise compatible options.
Q: How can I verify the production year and reference? A: The reference number (16610) is typically engraved between the lugs at 12 o’clock, and the serial at 6 o’clock (bracelet removal required). An “X”‑prefix serial corresponds to 1991. A Retro Tale can help confirm these details and provide additional photos on request.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained Calibre 3135 should keep good time, though performance can vary with age and service history. Many specialists recommend servicing every 5–10 years, or sooner if you notice timekeeping issues, moisture, or diminished water resistance. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and have seals checked periodically.
Q: What is included, and how do you guarantee authenticity? A: This watch is delivered with a box as stated in the listing. Papers are included only if specified. A Retro Tale thoroughly authenticates every item and provides a 12‑month mechanical guarantee, secure insured delivery, and professional support if you need further verification or information.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
• Stainless steel case, 40mm
• Black dial with date display
• Unidirectional rotatable black bezel
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Year 1991
• Vintage
