When discussing luxury timepieces, the name Rolex stands unrivaled in prestige and precision. Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex has set the benchmark for innovation, craftsmanship, and performance in watchmaking. Among its iconic offerings, the Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, revolutionized the dive watch category. Known for its robust design and water resistance, the Submariner quickly became a staple for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
The latest iteration, the Rolex Submariner 126610LN, builds on its rich legacy with substantial improvements over the previous reference, the 116610LN. Here’s how it measures up under the Six Star Review criteria:
Quality
The Rolex Submariner 126610LN exemplifies Rolex’s unwavering commitment to quality. This model features the new Caliber 3235 movement, offering significant advancements such as a 70-hour power reserve compared to the 48 hours of its predecessor. Additionally, it incorporates the Chronergy escapement, enhancing precision and energy efficiency. The 126610LN also boasts a slightly larger case size of 41mm (up from 40mm), providing a more contemporary aesthetic while maintaining the Submariner’s iconic proportions.
Rating: 6/6 Stars
Value
Rolex Submariners hold their value like few other luxury items. Thanks to limited availability and immense demand, this watch is not just an accessory but an investment. Owners often find they can wear a Submariner for a year and sell it at or above the original purchase price. Few products combine utility and financial security so seamlessly, making the Submariner a standout in this category.
Rating: 6/6 Stars
Price
The Submariner’s MSRP hovers around $9,100 (as of 2024), but market realities tell a different story. Due to Rolex’s supply constraints, secondary market prices frequently exceed $12,000. Since COVID-19, Rolex has implemented regular price hikes, raising concerns about affordability and market saturation. While the Submariner is worth every penny in craftsmanship, the escalating prices may alienate some customers.
Rating: 4/6 Stars
Customer Support
Rolex’s customer experience is often a sore spot. Authorized Dealers (ADs) rarely have stock available for walk-in customers, creating a frustrating “waiting list” culture. The elusive “call” from an AD to purchase your Submariner can take years, leading to customer dissatisfaction. While the purchase experience eventually becomes a memorable milestone for those lucky enough to secure the watch, the journey often leaves much to be desired.
Rating: 3/6 Stars
Ease of Use
The Submariner 126610LN is designed for simplicity and functionality. The improved Caliber 3235 movement ensures a longer power reserve, allowing the watch to remain operational for nearly three days without winding. This eliminates the need for constant resetting, making it more convenient for daily wear. The unidirectional rotatable bezel and clear Chromalight display further enhance usability.
Rating: 5/6 Stars
Durability
Few watches rival the durability of the Submariner. Crafted from Rolex’s proprietary Oystersteel and fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, this watch is built to withstand both extreme depths (up to 300 meters) and the rigors of everyday life. The Cerachrom bezel insert resists fading and scratches, ensuring the watch looks impeccable for years to come.
Rating: 6/6 Stars
Final Verdict
The Rolex Submariner 126610LN is a masterclass in watchmaking, blending iconic design with modern innovations. Its exceptional quality, robust value retention, and unmatched durability solidify its place as the ultimate dive watch. However, high prices and a frustrating customer experience slightly detract from its overall appeal.
Six Star Review Rating: 4.5/6 Stars
The Submariner remains a dream watch for many, embodying both luxury and practicality. If you’re fortunate enough to secure one, it’s a purchase you’ll never regret—both on the wrist and in the ledger.
