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Lot Essay
The present watch is a highly appealing example of the famed COMEX Submariner line. As expected, it correctly displays the reference number and serial number on the inside of the back, both of them very crisp. The back itself is engraved with the issue number 6323 preserved in equally crisp condition.
Rolex timepieces delivered to COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises) are extremely rare and sought-after by the discerning connoisseur. The importance of the marriage between COMEX and Rolex can be understood if one considers that it is after request from COMEX that Rolex, in the late 1960s, modified some Submariner watches with the addition of a gas escape valve, thus creating what will eventually become the Sea-Dweller.
Reference 16610 was launched in 1989, fitted with the new calibre 3135 movement and a different quality of the stainless steel case, upgraded from the previously used 316 steel to the much harder grade 904L.
Between around 1990 and 1997, approximately 250 examples of this model were supplied to Comex.
Rolex timepieces delivered to COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises) are extremely rare and sought-after by the discerning connoisseur. The importance of the marriage between COMEX and Rolex can be understood if one considers that it is after request from COMEX that Rolex, in the late 1960s, modified some Submariner watches with the addition of a gas escape valve, thus creating what will eventually become the Sea-Dweller.
Reference 16610 was launched in 1989, fitted with the new calibre 3135 movement and a different quality of the stainless steel case, upgraded from the previously used 316 steel to the much harder grade 904L.
Between around 1990 and 1997, approximately 250 examples of this model were supplied to Comex.