Danica Patrick Needs A Rolex Watch

Racing superstar Danica Patrick has joined a long list of motorsports superstars that have signed up to compete in the 47th anniversary Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 24-25, 2009. The grueling 24-hour race demands the very best from the competitors if they are not only trying to win, but also even finish. As a trailblazer, Danica Patrick last season became the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race. Although she failed to finish the Rolex 24 in 2006, she is back after taking a year off and ready to go for the blue ribbon. With natural talent and instinctive daring, Danica has the inner qualities necessary to win. If only Danica had a Rolex on her wrist before the race, she might see how the precision timepiece reflects the qualities she tries to achieve on the speedway.

If Danica Patrick could be given a lead on a Rolex watch to acquire, which Rolex ladies watch should she get to aid her in her cause? Although many of the professional men’s Rolex watches like the GMT Master II or the Daytona would do just fine, Danica needs a watch that reflects her style and class both on the raceway and on the red carpet. Melrose Jewelers happens to have a watch in stock that would meet Danica’s needs. The Ladies 2T Rolex Datejust is a spectacular watch showcasing the stunning Submariner Blue Diamond Dial. Its Oyster bracelet offers a modern appearance and is quite eye-catching with the combination of glossy Stainless Steel and 18k Yellow Gold, reflecting Danica’s balance between professional sports and fashion. Lastly, the .7ct Beadset Diamond Bezel set in 18k White Gold surrounds the magnificent dial and adds to the already glamorous appearance of this masterpiece. Such an incredible watch matches the blue colors of racing while offering the professional perfection of a Rolex. With the added diamond, it provides the glamour that a star like Danica Patrick not only needs, but also demands.

Danica competed in the Rolex 24 in 2006, but the team finished 50th after a mechanical breakdown. “I had such a good time,” said Patrick of her 2006 Rolex 24 start. “So many drivers come together for this event. Of course everyone wants to win and do well. But there’s such camaraderie at this. I’m just really grateful to come back to this team again. To be with a group of drivers like this, we have a great chance at winning this race.” Danica Patrick, who races with Andretti-Green Racing in the IndyCar Series, will spend this weekend’s test getting familiar with the Daytona Prototype again. She has plenty of memories from her lone 2006 start.



“There wasn’t a ton of running so it was hard to get a real feel of how the rhythm of the race goes and how it goes through the night and into the next day,” Danica said of her 2006 Rolex 24 experience, which cut short due to mechanical failures. “I’ll definitely be asking questions as we go along about that. I remember what it feels in the car and how it was around here and I think that will be able to carry over but also the car has improved too.” Hopefully, both the racing car and Danica’s team have improved because she deserves the opportunity to win the Rolex 24 and receive a Rolex watch as the prize for such a victory. Danica Patrick is a class act, and she would look perfect with a Rolex on her wrist.

Ana Ivanovic Signs Contract With Rolex

Joining tennis icons Roger Federer and Andy Roddick, beautiful French Open Champion Ana Ivanovic signs a worldwide endorsement contract with Rolex, the leading Swiss watchmaker. As the only female tennis player chosen by the Geneva-based watchmaker, Rolex will employ Ana in their advertising and as an ambassador of their philanthropic and sporting ventures. Ranked No. 1 in the world by the WTA for nine consecutive weeks in 2008, Ana Ivanovic displayed her mettle as a top tennis player in 2008. Beyond tennis, Rolex respected Ana Ivanovic’s appointment by the United Nations as the Unicef National Ambassador for Serbia in September of 2007. Ivanovic visited a primary school in Serbia during her inauguration and said: “I’m also looking forward to going into the classroom and meeting many kids.”

In the French Open shot, Ana Ivanovic is wearing a men’s Rolex Daytona, which is somewhat surprising. At this time, her endorsement deal barely was off the ground, and Rolex had not chosen her signature brand. What is remarkable is how well she wears the Paul Newman Rolex, and how the watch becomes both powerful and captivating. Later, Rolex decided Ana Ivanovic needed a watch to match her style and chose the gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust as her signature model. In interviews, Ivanovic expressed her delighted surprise that such a reputable brand as Rolex would pick her for their team: “I’m very happy to be partnering with Rolex,” said Ana. “It’s one of the most prestigious companies in the world and it feels good that they have shown confidence in me by offering me this contract. I will enjoy wearing Rolex watches on and off the court.”

The official watch sponsor of the Australian Open and Wimbledon, Rolex was thrilled by Ana Ivanovic’s tremendous comeback in 2008’s Australian Open semifinal. Against Daniela Hantuchova, Ivanovic trailed 6-0, 2-0 in a match that quite simply appeared to be over. Appearances can be deceiving, and Ivanovic stormed back to win the match, 0-6, 6-3, 6-4. Even though she lost in the finals, her semifinal comeback was a career defining moment. Such a moment created the momentum that led to her exciting victory in the French Open final and her first grand slam title. Afterwards, she vaulted to the No. 1 ranking and remained at the top for nine consecutive weeks.



Here is an image from Ana’s visit to the Rolex display suite at the China Open in Beijing. During the visit, Ana met the regional director of Rolex in China and signed autographs for a throng of Chinese supporters. It is no wonder that Rolex would pick such a stylish and popular champion to join its team of champions. The leading name in luxury watches, Rolex has been the pre-eminent symbol of performance and prestige for over a century, and Rolex men’s and ladies’ watches combine elegance with precision.

A Personalized Gold Rolex Watch: Have A Look

At the ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Awards of 2008, Italian windsurfing legend Alessandra Sensini and British two-time previous winner sailor Ben Ainsile took home top honors at the stunning La Quinta de Jarama in Madrid, Spain. Along with the award of a circular silver trophy, each winner was given a personalized gold Rolex wristwatch. The well-deserving winners of the 2008 ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year titles outlasted an impressive list of nominees.

A windsurfing pioneer nominated twice in the past, Alessandra Sensini has won three Olympic gold medals. When asked if she was surprised, Sensini put her hand to her heart as she held her new Rolex gold watch and said, “I was surprised. To win the ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Award is an incredible feeling.” With a gold medal at the World Championships and a silver medal at the Beijing Olympic Games, Sensini’s achievements in her sport this year, despite being 38 years old, are nothing less than astonishing. Like the Rolex watch she won, Alessandra Sensini is a true classic who continues to break new ground. As she said, “I can never say never! I feel like I can still grow, stay motivated inside and compete at a high level.

In the men’s division, Ben Ainslie, Britain’s most successful Olympic sailor with three gold medals, now has a gold personalized Rolex wristwatch to add to his collection. Beaming with pride, Ainslie said, “The ISAF Rolex Sailor of the Year Award is a massive honor. For any sailor, it’s huge.” After Ainslie won a third straight gold medal in the Finn class at Beijing, IOC President Jacques Rogge described his accomplishment as the equal of the eight gold medals of American swimmer Michael Phelps and the world record of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt when he clearly said, “Whatever they do is fantastic, but whatever Ainslie does is equally fantastic.” With such a solid endorsement, it makes perfect sense that Ben Ainslie now wears a personalized gold Rolex wristwatch as the 2008 Rolex World Sailor of the Year.

Overall, it was nothing less than an incredible night where the world’s sailing elite celebrated the very best of their sport. The feeling of the 2008 Rolex World Sailor of the Year awards was summed up by HM King Constantine, ISAF President of Honor, when he declared: “This is the one night of the year that we the world governing body of sailing and you our guests marvel, celebrate and award those who are the heroes of our sport.” And what greater award could be given to Alessandra Sensini and Ben Ainslie than the personalized gold Rolex wristwatches, which they received. The circular silver ISAF trophy will stay in the trophy case, but the personalized gold Rolex proudly can be worn and displayed year round.

A Stolen Rolex Brought 160000 to Its Owner

A Stolen Rolex Brought 160000 to Its Owner

Guys, a famous saying "blessing in disguise" is really wise. An amazing story happened in London where police maintained an operation to check up some jewelry stores activity. They have found a great number of stolen things there. Basically watches. And an interesting thing happened. In order to return everything found police placed pictures of the stolen things on a special site. Interesting, isn't it?

Soon after it first "victims" appeared. Have you already guessed that this is the end of the story? It turned out that those thieves passed their loot to light-fingered jewelers and those jewelers incrusted watches with the precious stones. Yes, they killed two birds with one stone: they made watches more expensive and at the same time watches lost their similarity with their description.



Oh, of course it's a great idea...but Great Britain police works great as well. They gradually returned stolen things to their owners; moreover a very pleasant surprise was waiting for them.

For instance, a woman that bought a watch for 10000 pounds got the same watch but its present price with precious stones was 32 000 pounds.

But the greatest bonus got a golden Rolex owner. From the very beginning his watch wasn't cheap 40000 pounds, but after theft its price became 200000. Wonderful, isn't it?

When the Rolex watch owner saw his renewed watch for the first time he was shocked. And we can easily understand his reaction - just imagine: his watch was beautiful till the theft took place, but this beauty was later adorned with precious stones. Oh, guys, who want to steal my watch, decorate it with precious stones and then give it back to me? Nobody? Why?

Ok, it was a joke but let's be serious. So, I don't know your opinion but as for me, it's a great compensation for all the bypast troubles, agree?

Rolex Offers Support to Alzheimer's Research

Rolex Offers Support to Alzheimer's Research

Rolex has once again acted as the underwriter of the annually organized Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Gala. The event was held on October, 10th to pay tribute to American screen legend Rita Hayworth. The actress, who was especially famous in the 1940-s, became the sex symbol of the era. She was stricken with the Alzheimer disease in her 40s.

The event took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. The organizers managed to raise more than 2 million dollars for the Alzheimer's Association.

The event was hosted by Louise Kornfeld, gala chair, and Allen Brill, underwriting chair, Rolex president and CEO. Among those who joined the event there were New York socialites, famous actors and media representatives, including Muffy Potter Aston, Bryant and Hillary Gumbel, Donna Dixon Aykroyd and Dan Aykroyd, John McEnroe, Anne Hearst, Regis Philbin Ron Perelman, and Ivana Trump.

Rolex Watch USA has acted as the underwriter of Alzheimer's Association Rita Hayworth Gala for the fifth year in the row. Mr. Allen Brill has announced that the prestigious watch brand will continue to act in this role through 2012, the year to mark the company's 10-year anniversary as the gala's underwriter.

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, daughter of Rita Hayworth, was the one who established the Rita Hayworth Gala more than 20 years ago. More than 48 million dollars have been raised to support Alzheimer's Association care and research.

New Rolex Jeweled Timepieces

New Rolex Jeweled Timepieces

The new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Special Edition and the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II successfully combines daring compositions and well-maintained traditional craftsmanship. The cases of the both timepieces are crafted in 18k white gold.

The Datejust Special Edition features an eye-catching bezel paved with black sapphires or diamond baguettes. The originally designed watch's dial reveals 'straps' composed of white diamonds that distinctively contrast with the black background. The white diamonds have replaced the hour-markers. There is a big date window at 3 o'clock. As for the watch's strap, it sports the combination of stingray leather and rubber. The strap is embellished with sparkling diamonds and equipped with a folding clasp.

The Rolex GMT-Master II features a 24-hour rotatable bezel set with jewels. The watch's case lugs and protective shoulders are paved with brilliants. The solid Oyster bracelet is provided with the new Oysterlock security clasp with Easylink comfort extension link. White mother-of-pearl hour markers provide great readability on the black dial. The GMT function is featured by the additional central hand with a triangular tip. the timepiece also provides the date function with a window placed at 3 o'clock.

The new Rolex jeweled watches are the reflection of the company's exclusive art of watchmaking and gem encrusting.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss

Updated Version of the Legendary Oyster Perpetual Milgauss

At present day a lot of people work in environments that are subject to intense magnetic fields. Aerospace industry, research labs, telecommunications and medical imaging are just a few examples of fields that are found under the considerable magnetic influence. Scientists, technicians, engineers and other specialists all need a reliable timepiece that would be well protected from magnetic influences and provide accurate timekeeping. Rolex developed its Oyster Perpetual Milgauss with these people in mind.

The Oyster Perpetual Milgauss bears a French name that implies that the timepiece with an inner 'Faraday cage' case will resist a magnetic flux density of one thousand gauss. The year 2007 marked a new step in evolution of the model. The first model of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss appeared back in the 1950s, having brought technological progress to focus. The movement of the watch reliably protected by the magnetic shied has been developed to provide exceptional performance even when found under the influence of strong magnetic fields.

In 2007 the Rolex vintage Milgauss celebrated its 50th anniversary. As one could have expected, prices for the extremely rare vintage models available through auction sales are amazingly high. Taking these facts into account, no wonder Rolex has decided to update its legendary Oyster model offering an advantage of anti-magnetic protection. Rolex fans will surely be pleased by the updated model's perfect execution and reasonable price - that is £3,210.

The distinctively orange sweep-seconds hand is designed to remind a lightning-bolt. The black dial features white and orange applied hour markers. The Arabic minute numerals are also in orange. The dial is covered by a green-tinted sapphire crystal that adds a slight trace of stylishness to the dial. The watch goes on a rigorous stainless steel Oyster bracelet.

New Generation of Rolex for Yachtsmen

New Generation of Rolex for Yachtsmen

The Rolex Yacht-Master II, a new sports watch for fans of yacht racing, was initially presented at BaselWorld 2007.

Connoisseurs of Rolex watches are aware that every newly renovated model of the brand is characterized by supreme functionality. As the proof of this fact, the company's watchmakers have essentially modified the GMT Master movement if to compare the first GMT Master and the GMT Master II. The GMT Master II makes possible to set the hour hand and the 24-hour hand independently. In comparison to the original Explorer, the Explorer II also features dramatic changes. The timepiece is equipped with the same movement as the GMT Master II, having employed a 24-hour hand and date. As for the Rolex Yacht-Master II, it has become a worthy successor of the original model.

Experienced watch experts consider the first model of the Yacht-Master to be quite a standard watch for diving. The watch displays the bi-directional rotating bezel necessary for tracking the start sequence of a yacht race. Its Triplock crown leaves the case perfectly protected from any water drops.

The new version of the Rolex Yacht Master houses an innovative movement of a really complicated nature. It offers a countdown timer. It is possible to set the timer to start between one and ten minutes for regattas with different start sequences. The countdown timer remembers the value, and when it is reset, the countdown hand goes back to the last set value. Connoisseurs of mechanical timepiece, will surely appreciate such an impressive advantage.

Some of the watch's wearers may consider as a slight drawback the necessity to unscrew the crown for setting the countdown timer. This way the timepiece becomes not really protected from moisture, especially if it is used while sailing. One more thing you will notice about the watch a big "YACHT-MASTER II" inscription on the bezel – the new generation of Rolex watches is distinctively branded.

The Yacht-Master II is a quite complicated piece to operate. It is aimed at real watch aficionados. The timepiece will become a great choice for those who are passionate about yachting and value the watch's aesthetic appeal.

Rolex Yacht-Master II, as the majority of the brand's timepieces, is destined to become a trend-setter in the world of watchmaking. It will be available on the watch market in the beginning of summer. There will be produced the watch's models in yellow or white gold. Their retail price will reach about $ 30,000.

A Sensational Rolex Watch Theft

A Sensational Rolex Watch Theft

How an expensive watch like Rolex can be stolen? Really, I don't understand it. In any high-class store the latest security system is set. But it turns out that it's not as secure as we might think.

A jewelry store in Florida, USA "lost" a 1000 Rolex because of one chevalier of fortune. And now, police continues searching for a thief who, according to their words, tried to look fitted in with other customers and then took off with a watch that cost as a good car.

A surveillance camera at the jewelry store shows a well-dressed man looking at very expensive watches. Usually, in such stores and in such cases while I am looking at something more or less expensive, at least one shop assistant is next to me...Quite a weird situation, isn't it?

Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, until the man took off with a ,000 watch in his hand. The thief looked like an average customer, he was well-dressed and calm. But after tape examining, police said the store guard could guess what he had kept in his head. I think, nobody has to be Einstein to understand it from the first sight but life shows a different view.

"His purpose was to steal a Rolex. He came in with his hands in his pockets. He never touched the glass case. There wasn't anything that he was leaving behind", police said. Well, does anybody wonder now about his purpose? What about banal intuition? As for me, I'd fire immediately all the stuff!

It seems the watch was an original, and if that's the case, the crook might have a hard time getting rid of it. However, it is not very difficult to do. Having some dollars in the pocket allows this "well-dressed customer" going at least to Mexico, a well-known place for such dirty business.

Hey, folks, has anyone of you seen that guy in any place? If yes, shake his hand on my behalf!

Rolex Watch Model: Rolex Submariner

Rolex Submariner

Whoever said there is no eye-pleasing way to combine ruggedness with sophistication has surely not seen the Rolex Submariner gracing the wrist of the legendary Agent 007 in several early James Bond movies. And even long before Sean Connery sported the Submariner, the watch was mentioned in Ian Fleming's original novel. Talk about a true classic!

Design changes through the years

In 1953 Rolex had the Submariner prototype tested in deep waters and on a rough terrain by various explorers. More than 1,000 dives later the watch kept ticking, having survived sub-zero temperatures, as well as the wear and tear of expeditions. In subsequent years, as the popularity of scuba diving and other aquatic exploits grew, the Submariner underwent numerous facelifts and design improvements, such as a bigger, easier-to-read 40 mm dial, and a flat sapphire crystal, which replaced its slightly domed Plexiglas predecessor. Early all-steel watches were complemented over the years by gold and Rolesor models.

In 2003, in time for Submariner's 50th birthday, Rolex launched the commemorative model featuring a black dial with a rotatable green bezel, and a stainless steel, oyster flip lock bracelet.

Why own a Submariner?

I like this watch because it conjures up an aura of adventure and fun. The good news is that you do not have to be a secret agent, a thrill seeker, or a daredevil for that matter, to appreciate the Submariner's blend of sturdiness and classic elegance. If you are a diver, however, or any other kind of an underwater enthusiast, this watch is, hands down, a dream come true. Water resistant and impermeable, Submariner can reliably and accurately show the time at any depth up to 1,000 feet. And, because it is a Rolex, it is meticulously refined and crafted with a superb attention to detail that has, for many years, set the industry standard for top-of-the-line luxury watches.

Think of the Submariner as the perfect watch to take a dive in - and still come up a winner!

Rolex Watch Review: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust

Rolex Datejust Features:

It is difficult to say which Rolex model is the best, because individual tastes can't be defined with as much accuracy and precision as these Swiss watches.

From a purely personal point of view, I think the DateJust collection offers the most versatility, at least as far as the combination of classic elegance and functionality is concerned. Historically, too, the DateJust was a milestone setter for Rolex, as it was the first watch to feature the date display through a clearly visible magnifying Cyclops lens.

A brief lesson in Rolex nomenclature:

Launched in 1945, the DateJust was the culmination of all Rolex's virtues: chronometer-certified, water-resistant (up to 330 feet / 100 metres), with an automatic winding. And, of course, the most important feature in a watch - punctuality. The "just" in the name stands for "just in time" because the date display advances to show the next day's date at precisely midnight.

While the DateJust's basic design did not dramatically change since its inception, some aesthetic touches have been added over the years, such as Rolesor, for example.

For those who don't know, Rolesor is Rolex's term for the combination of stainless steel with the yellow, white or pink 18-carat gold, a look that jazzes up either all-steel or all-gold models. It derives from the terms Rolex (naturally), and Or, the French word for gold.

DateJust features:

Many of the DateJust Rolesor models also boast refined details, such as smooth and domed bezels in addition to the traditional fluted ones, as well as better visibility thanks to larger dials and hands. Also, the gold central link of the Oyster bracelet is offset by narrower links of solid steel for a snugger fit.

The ideal wearer:

If you like functional, sturdy and no-frill watches that will withstand a lot of wear and tear, a sports model like the Explorer might be a better choice than the DateJust.

But for those who like dressy elegance and the two-tone combination of Rolesor, this DateJust model is, wrists down, a great choice.

Rejuvenation of the style:

DateJust has been a timeless classic since its introduction, and celebrities took to immediately. Still favoured in recent decades, Kurt Russell was seen wearing one in "Tequila Sunrise," (1988, if you didn't remember) and Matt Dillon even resorts to stealing a Rolesor watch in "One Night at McCool's" (although the real prize he was after was the DVD player...)

Recently, Rolex caused a bit of a stir with some flashy adverts of DateJust models in Rolesor, adorning the wrists of attractive, fun-loving younger people "out on the town". Although an instantly recognisable brand the world over, Rolex's long history demands that the brand's image take an occasional dip in the Fountain of Youth.

Some adverts from the Far East don't reach us in the West, although they'd certainly have an audience here as well. Below, Brad Pitt (an American) models Rolex watches (Swiss) for an advertising campaign in Japan.

Rolex Watch Model: Mens Rolex President

The Men's, like the Ladies is also available in all 18 Karat Yellow Gold, 18 Karat White Gold and Platinum. This means that the entire watch is made in that specific metal right from the watch bracelet, the watch case to the watch crown. The fundamental of customizing your Rolex watch still exists with the Men's President. Infact with the president you can add diamonds to the watch lugs just like the lady's president. The diamonds on the lugs give it a very sharp and different look. Once again you have the choice to change the bezel. There are a variety of bezels available like the high polish bezel, the fluted bezel, diamond bezel, etc. Unfortunately right now I do no have the pictures to provide you with the images of the different dials and the different bezels. I will come up with some soon.

I like the one featured on the left, the most. Here are the technical details about it. I will try to keep it simple. It is the Men's Oyster Perpetual Day-Date. "Perpetual" in watch language means that the mechanism is aware which month has 29, 30 or 31 days. It is an automatic winding mechanical Rolex. All of the Mechanical Rolexes are Officially Certified (C.O.S.C.). It has a Platinum Three Piece Case, size 36 mm. The sapphire crystal has the "Cyclope" magnifying glass over the date, making it easier for an individual with poor eyesight to see the date clearer. The Bezel is a high Polish Bombé bezel, with a white gold screw down crown and a double gasket. The Dial is ice blue with white gold Roman numerals, printed railway minute track and white gold bâton hands. It has a Superpresident Platinum bracelet with high and brushed finish.

Rolex Watch Model: Rolex Datejust 16013

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Datejust
Reference: 16013
Series: 890xxxx (pre-letter serial number circa 1984)
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3035
Water Resistance: 330 ft./100 m.
Case: Two-tone, 904L grade Stainless steel with solid 18k gold bezel, and 18k gold crown
Crystal: Acrylic (plastic)
Notes: Datejust is part of Rolex's Oyster Precision line of watches, and makes an ideal dress watch, yet is every bit as robust as many of the models in the sportier Oyster Professional line. Most experts agree that the Datejust is Rolex's best selling watch line, and there is no shortage of supply of these models in the secondary market. Prices for vintage models, especially pre-sapphire crystal models represent an incredible value.

Rolex Watch Model: Cosmograph Daytona 116520

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Cosmograph Daytona
Reference: 116520
Series: F
Movement: Rolex Caliber 4130
Water Resistance: 330 ft./100 m.
Case: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Notes: The Cosmograph Daytona is the trophy piece of my collection, as it is the rarest and most sought after watch in the world. Each authorized Rolex dealer is allocated only one, or perhaps two of the coveted stainless steel models each year. Most Rolex dealers maintain waiting lists of people who want to buy the Daytona.

- Rolex Luxury Watch Blog

Rolex Watch Model: Explorer II 16570

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Explorer II
Reference: 16570
Series: Y
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3185
Water Resistance: 330 ft./100 m.
Case: 903L grade Stainless steel
Crystal: Synthetic sapphire
Notes: The Explorer II is one of Rolex's newer models, having been introduced in 1971 as a supplement to the original Rolex Explorer, and with the current model 16570 having been introduced in 1989. The Explorer II was designed for cave exploration, or any other sort of extended expeditions where the wearer would need a reliable way to determine day from night. The red "GMT" hand used in conjunction with the 24 hr. markings on the bezel serve this purpose.

Rolex Watch Model: Submariner 16610

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Submariner
Reference: 16610
Series: A
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135
Water Resistance: 1000 ft./300 m.
Case: 904L grade Stainless steel
Crystal: Synthetic sapphire
Notes: This particular 16610 is not from my personal collection, but rather it is part of the collection of a close personal friend. I've never owned a 16610 Submariner, but thought it was important to include a reference page on this iconic classic. I'm often asked, "which Rolex should I buy?" If you plan on buying one and only one Rolex, this is the one to buy. It is without question the most popular of the sport models, and about the most versatile model Rolex sells.

Rolex Model: Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary Edition

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Submariner - 50th Anniversary Edition
Reference: 16610 LV (Lunette Verde)
Series: D
Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135
Water Resistance: 1000 ft./300 m.
Case: 904L grade Stainless steel.
Crystal: Synthetic sapphire
Notes: The Submariner 16610 LV, or "Lunette Verde" was issued in 2004 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Submariner, arguably the greatest diver watch ever created, and certainly the most famous. While initially thought to be a limited edition model, the LV Submariner has remained in production since its introduction. There are only cosmetic differences between the LV Submariner, and the regular black bezel counterpart - the bezel color, markers, and hands are the only difference. The LV Submariner uses the Rolex "Maxi Dial" large size hands and markers, first introduced on the Yacht-Master.

Rolex Model: Rolex Submariner

SPECIFICATIONS:

Model: Submariner
Reference: 1680 - rare variant model with the word "Submariner" written in red.
Series: Late 2 million serial from 1970
Movement: Rolex Caliber 1570
Water Resistance: 660ft./200 m.
Case: Stainless steel.
Crystal: Plexiglas (acrylic plastic)
Notes: The Model 1680 model was launched in 1966 - the first Submariner to receive the date complication from Rolex. Apparently Rolex made the dial variation with red writing for only a short time - until roughly 1974 when the dial printing was changed to white.

Rolex: Innovations

Among the company's innovations are the first waterproof watch case; the first wristwatch with a date on the dial; the first watch to show two time zones at once; and the first watchmakers to earn chronometer certification for a wristwatch. To date, Rolex still holds the record for the most certified chronometer movements in the category of wristwatches.

Rolex participated in the development of the original quartz watch movements. Although Rolex has made very few quartz models for its Oyster line, the company's engineers were instrumental in design and implementation of the technology during the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1968, Rolex collaborated with a consortium of 16 Swiss watch manufacturers to develop the Beta 21 quartz movement used in their Rolex Quartz Date 5100. Within about five years of research, design, and development, Rolex created the "clean-slate" 5035/5055 movement that would eventually power the Rolex Oysterquartz. The first self-winding Rolex watch was offered to the public in 1931, preceded to the market by Harwood which patented the design in 1923 and produced the first self-winding watch in 1928, powered by an internal mechanism that used the movement of the wearer's arm. This not only made watch-winding unnecessary, but eliminated the problem of over-winding a watch and harming its mechanism. Rolex was also the first watch company to create the first water resistant watch to 330 feet. Wilsdorf even had a specially made Rolex watch attached to the side of the Trieste bathyscaphe, which went to the bottom of the Mariana Trench. The watch survived and tested as having kept perfect time during its descent and ascent. This was confirmed by a telegram sent to Rolex the following day saying "Am happy to confirm that even at 11,000 metres your watch is as precise as on the surface. Best regards, Jacques Piccard".

Rolex has also made a reputation in watches suitable for the extremes of deep-sea diving, aviation and mountain climbing. Early sports models included the Rolex submariner and the Oyster Perpetual Sea Dweller 2000 (in 1971). This watch had a helium release valve, co-invented with Swiss watchmaker Doxa, to release helium gas build-up during decompression. Another sports model is the Rolex GMT Master II, originally developed at the request of Pan Am Airways to assist pilots in transcontinental flights. The Explorer and Explorer II were developed specifically for explorers who would navigate rough terrain—such as the world famous Everest Expeditions. At the moment Rolex possesses sole rights stores in many urban centres of the world, such as: Toronto, Paris, London, New York, Mexico City, Sao Paulo, Santiago, Buenos Aires, Sydney, Tokyo, Dubai, and Wellington, among others.