Why I love the 5-digit Submariners

[Loevhagen]

After selling my Red Sub (4-digit) and owning some 6-digits, I've found that the perfect series is 5-digit Submariners.

The 16610LV with a black insert along with the 16618LB - makes a dynamic duo, where scuffs, dings and marks just adds character.

I know not all of you feel the same, and that is indeed perfectly OK - but you must admit the 5-digit Submariners is de facto a "meant to be used" option without all the desk diver scuffs crying for the 6-digit versions and the "be careful with water" the 4-digit versions often entail.

Anyways - here is my duo bought and worn since 2016:

[OrangeSport]

I'm with you

5 digits is as good as it gets, so far..

[jgottsman11]

That photo alone may have pushed me over the edge to buy a 16610 this weekend.

[aurenas]

5digits for the win!




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[Deep18]

Hard to argue. Two beautiful watches.

[drockadam]

Love 5 digits!

[1995akcoop]

Originally Posted by Loevhagen

After selling my Red Sub (4-digit) and owning some 6-digits, I've found that the perfect series is 5-digit Submariners.

The 16610LV with a black insert along with the 16618LB - makes a dynamic duo, where scuffs, dings and dings just adds character.

I know not all of you feel the same, and that is indeed perfectly OK - but you must admit the 5-digit Submariners is de facto a "meant to be used" option without all the crying over desk diver scuffs and the "be careful with water" the 4-digit versions often entail.

Anyways - here is my duo bought and worn since 2016:

Simply beautiful!!!


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[robinmgb]

Like you say, we're all different.
For me with subs it's either proper vintage 4 digit or modern 6 digit, the 5 has neither of the benefits.
Strangely with Daytonas I do prefer 5 digits!
Enjoy your watches, sorry, don't mean to sound too negative

[Loevhagen]

Originally Posted by robinmgb

Like you say, we're all different.
For me it's either proper vintage 4 digit or modern 6 digit, the 5 has neither of the benefits.
Enjoy your watches, sorry, don't mean to sound too negative

I hear you. But - for me, the 5-digit is the perfect version of both outliers.

[Maiden]

Could t agree more


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[Cinquecento]

I am a fan 100%

[Brian Page]

I'm a fan too, but nothing at this point can replace my 5513. I'd like to add back a five digit sub date.

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[shaunylw]

Love 5 digit subs but everything about the 6 digit is better IMO. But, that doesn’t mean i prefer 6 digit over 14060s or 16610s. 6 digit bracelets are miles better, anti reflective is better, power reserve is better ( not that i really care about this) and the bezel is certainly a huge upgrade. I really enjoy my new 6 digit sub but it’s just not the same as the 5 digit. It lacks something, it feels almost sterile.

I’m waiting on a new Daytona and might get a BLRO, but i think I’m done with modern Rolex after that. I much prefer the way the 5 digit watches wear. The bracelets are not better but i find them more comfortable. The 5 digit subs i have owned look less shiny than the 6 digits and in general the watches seem to have more character.

Love both, love most Rolex models, but if i had to chose one it’s 5 digit for certain.


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[CPRWATCH]

5 digit Submariner fan , 81 16800 & 2010 16610LV ,

[Loevhagen]

Originally Posted by shaunylw

...The 5 digit subs i have owned look less shiny than the 6 digits and in general the watches seem to have more character....

Core message. 100% agree.

[Lew Archer]

Agreed. Personally, I wouldn't know what to do with a sixth digit. And, where would one buy gloves to fit?

Somethings are best left alone with five digits!

[brandrea]

Fantastic photos as usual

[Chester01]

23 years with my U series 16610 and on my wrist more days than not over that span. Couldn’t agree more. The last era created as and worn as tools.

[REBThunderroad]

Love the 5 digit subs! PERFECTION!

[ancientmariner]

With you all the way, OP.
5 digits are my favourites.....

[jb335]

Awesome photo, OP!

[rmurphy]

5 digit for me as well


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[Jster]

Beautiful. 5 digit Subs and GMTs were the zenith of Rolex design.

[SA1]

Me too! Waiting to get mine back from service.

[Binky1]

Bought mine in 1990 and still in rotation. Close on a hundred dives and numerous adventures in different parts of the world. Bezel replaced after a water skiing accident and new bracelet as the 30 year old one got too stretched but still going strong.

[Cru Jones]

Nice photo.

Glad you found what you like.

[inadeje]

OP I wholeheartedly agree. Such a balanced and well conceived masterpiece. Some call the bracelet flimsy or the aluminum bezel insert old school, but the watch is simply perfect in proportions, weight and design

[Swiss Mad!]

Originally Posted by Loevhagen

After selling my Red Sub (4-digit) and owning some 6-digits, I've found that the perfect series is 5-digit Submariners.

The 16610LV with a black insert along with the 16618LB - makes a dynamic duo, where scuffs, dings and marks just adds character.

I know not all of you feel the same, and that is indeed perfectly OK - but you must admit the 5-digit Submariners is de facto a "meant to be used" option without all the desk diver scuffs crying for the 6-digit versions and the "be careful with water" the 4-digit versions often entail.

Anyways - here is my duo bought and worn since 2016:

Why would you put a black insert on an LV?

[thesharkfactor]

Amazing pair you have. I agree, 5 digit Subs are very special.

[Gobee]

Agree. I like the look of the 5 digits. The possibility of aging. I tried it once but felt the bracelet was off. I find that latest 6 digits is good compromise between the look and improved quality.