Submariner 16610 shopping advice

[Juggernaut]

Need some opinions...
I really love my No-date 2-liner 14060M, but since I picked up an Explorer 214270, the Sub doesn't get much wrist time, so I'm thinking of flipping it for a Sub Date for some variety and the convenience of a magnified Date window.

I want the modern 3135 movement for its better durability (full balance bridge), so that means a 16610. I definitely want lug holes and hollow endlinks, so that means 1999 (A-serial or older). It's kind of a toss up between the open 6/9 date wheel which are on the 1988 (R) and 1989 (L) models OR a Luminova/Super Luminova dial which has will continue to glow, but are unlikely develop a patina. Many of the early ones' gloss dials are starting to transition to speckled matte dials which I find pretty eye-catching. Obviously minimal if any polishing history is a big factor for me as well...

Any thoughts?

[RolexTimes]

Hello. Is the Sub no date still for sale?

[Lgear080]

Sounds like you know what you want. It just comes down to spending the $6.5-7.5K these watches are demanding now. I’d search for a lightly worn full set, pay up and enjoy. Matte dial would be my first choice.

[Juggernaut]

Originally Posted by Lgear080

Sounds like you know what you want. It just comes down to spending the $6.5-7.5K these watches are demanding now. I’d search for a lightly worn full set, pay up and enjoy. Matte dial would be my first choice.

Thanks....yeah, that seems to be the price range. For me condition is more important than box and papers, although both would certainly be a bonus.
As far as matte dial, of course the 16610 never had a truly matte dial, but the older ones are starting to patina towards that, possibly from the Tritium over the years?

[Lgear080]

Who knows... these dials go through a lot of decomp over time.