The Rolex Submariner, a legend in the world of horology, is renowned for its robustness, reliability, and, historically, its exceptional luminous properties. However, as with any mechanical device, components age, and the luminous material, or lume, within a Submariner is no exception. This article delves into the issue of failing lume in a 1995 Rolex Submariner 16610, exploring the potential causes, common problems related to lume degradation in this specific model, and offering insights based on experiences shared online and through expert knowledge.
The owner's observation – that the lume pip was initially bright but then faded – is a common complaint amongst owners of vintage and even relatively newer Rolex Submariners. This points to a multifaceted problem, not just a simple “broken” lume. Let's unpack the potential reasons for this diminished luminescence.
Why is Lume on a Submariner so Weak?
The luminescence of a Rolex Submariner, particularly those produced before the switch to Super-Luminova, relies on the properties of the luminous material used. The 16610, produced from 1988 to 2010, largely employed tritium in its early production years, transitioning to LumiNova later in its run. Understanding the differences is crucial to understanding why lume fades.
* Tritium: Early Rolex Submariners, including many from 1995, used tritium. Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that emits a soft, green glow. Unlike LumiNova, tritium's luminescence is self-powered and does not require external light to charge. However, tritium has a half-life of approximately 12.3 years. This means its luminosity decays over time, becoming progressively weaker. A 1995 16610 would have had a significant portion of its original tritium decay by now, resulting in noticeably weaker lume. The intensity of the glow also depends on the initial amount of tritium applied during manufacturing and the quality of the application process. Inconsistent application could lead to areas of weaker lume compared to others.
* LumiNova: Later 16610 models, and all modern Rolex watches, use LumiNova. LumiNova is a non-radioactive phosphorescent material that requires exposure to light to charge and glow. While it doesn't decay like tritium, its glow fades over time, particularly if it's not adequately exposed to light. The duration of its glow depends on the intensity and duration of the charging light source. If a watch is stored in darkness for extended periods, the LumiNova will require more time to regain its full brightness. A watch constantly exposed to sunlight will maintain its luminescence for a longer period.
Rolex Submariner 16610 Bezel Insert Issue:
The bezel insert on a Submariner is another crucial component contributing to its overall nighttime readability. The lume on the bezel insert, like the dial and hands, also degrades over time. Issues with the bezel insert can compound the problem of weak lume. Cracks, chips, or fading of the lume on the bezel insert itself will significantly reduce its nighttime visibility. Furthermore, if the bezel insert is not properly aligned, it can obscure the lume on the dial, further diminishing its effectiveness.
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