The Rolex Submariner Kermit, officially the reference 16610LV, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its vibrant green bezel insert, reminiscent of Kermit the Frog, instantly catches the eye. However, even within this highly sought-after model, a subtle variation exists that elevates it to legendary status among collectors: the Flat 4 bezel. This article delves deep into the world of the Flat 4 Kermit, exploring its history, distinguishing features, value, and the fervent community surrounding this rare and coveted timepiece.
The allure of the Flat 4 Kermit lies not just in its striking green bezel, but in its subtle, almost imperceptible detail: the profile of the bezel insert itself. Unlike later production Kermits, which feature a slightly raised profile on the bezel numerals, the Flat 4 bezel, as its name suggests, presents a completely flat surface. This seemingly minor difference marks these early examples as highly desirable, representing a fleeting moment in Rolex's production history. These inserts were fitted only to the earliest examples of the 16610LV, making them exceptionally rare and significantly increasing their value in the collector's market.
The Genesis of the Flat 4: A Brief History
The Rolex Submariner 16610LV, affectionately known as the Kermit, was introduced in 2003. This marked a significant departure from the previous black bezel Submariner, offering a bold new aesthetic that captured the imagination of watch enthusiasts worldwide. The initial production run of these watches featured the coveted Flat 4 bezel insert. The exact timeframe for the production of these early examples is debated among collectors, with some suggesting a very limited production window within the first year or two of the model's release. The transition to the raised numeral bezel insert happened subtly, with no official announcement from Rolex signaling the change. This lack of official documentation further adds to the mystique and desirability of the Flat 4.
The "Flat 4" moniker itself comes from the visual appearance of the "4" on the bezel insert. In the Flat 4 bezels, this numeral appears completely flat, integrated seamlessly into the bezel's surface. Later iterations, however, showed a slight elevation of the numerals, a change that, while barely perceptible to the untrained eye, is a crucial distinguishing factor for collectors. This subtle difference has become the defining characteristic of this particular variation, fueling the intense interest and research within the community. Many dedicated collectors have meticulously documented and photographed examples of both Flat 4 and raised numeral bezels, allowing for detailed comparisons and furthering the understanding of this nuanced aspect of Rolex production.
Identifying a Flat 4 Kermit: A Collector's Guide
Distinguishing a Flat 4 Kermit from its later counterparts requires a keen eye and often, high-quality magnification. While photographs can help, a hands-on examination is essential for definitive identification. Key features to look for include:
* The Flat Numerals: The most crucial element is the flatness of the numerals, particularly the "4." Compare the "4" on the suspect bezel to images of known Flat 4 and raised numeral bezels. The difference, although subtle, is noticeable under magnification.
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