THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16710
YEAR: 2001
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 16710 is one of our favourite 5-digit Rolexes - it was in production for eighteen years, eventually being phased out in 2007. During that time, several subtle, but important changes were made to the reference. 

The 16710 directly superseded the 16760 with its slimmer case while retaining the Cal. 3185 movement. Early 16710 examples feature tritium dials such as the previous GMT Master models. Between 1997 and 2000, like most Rolexes from the era, 16710 dials transitioned from tritium to Luminova, then to Super Luminova, as indicated by the "SWISS" and "SWISS MADE" signatures at 6 o'clock. The present watch is a transitional "SWISS MADE" example, retaining the lug hole case, which allows for easier strap change.