Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold

About Rolex Submariner Blue Gold

The legacy of the Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold traces back to the evolution of the iconic dive watch first introduced in 1953. What began as a purely utilitarian tool watch transformed into a symbol of luxury when Rolex introduced gold into the Rolex Submariner history. The striking combination of blue and gold emerged in the 1970s, forever changing the landscape of luxury sport watches.

When Rolex paired the deep blue dial and bezel with gleaming yellow gold, they created more than a timepiece - they crafted a statement. This distinctive aesthetic bridges the gap between professional functionality and opulent design, appealing to those who demand both performance and prestige. The rich blue symbolizes the ocean depths the watch was designed to explore, while the gold represents the enduring value and timeless luxury Rolex has mastered.

Blue and Gold Submariner References

The Submariner Blue and Gold line spans several decades, and with every reference there is an evolutionary step in design, material, and technical specifications. From traditional vintage pieces to modern masterpieces, the timepieces incorporate the finest Rolex craftsmanship while maintaining the signature blue and gold charm that has made them incredibly captivating for collectors worldwide.

Ref. 116618

The Rolex 116618LB represents a significant advancement in the Submariner lineage. Produced from 2008 to 2020, this reference introduced the "Super Case" design with broader lugs and crown guards, giving the watch a more substantial presence on the wrist. The 116618 features a unidirectional Cerachrom bezel in brilliant blue, offering improved scratch resistance and color longevity compared to its predecessors.

Distinguished by its vibrant "Sunburst" blue dial and 18k yellow gold construction, the 116618LB (with "LB" denoting "Lunette Bleu" or blue bezel) embodies luxury diving capability. The Chromalight display provides exceptional legibility underwater with its blue luminescence, while the 904L stainless steel clasp mechanism within the gold bracelet ensures secure wearing during any adventure - whether below the waves or in the boardroom.

Ref. 126618

The current generation 126618LB was introduced in 2020, showcasing Rolex's latest interpretation of the blue-and-gold Submariner concept. This reference debuted a redesigned case with more refined proportions and a slightly larger 41mm size, which enhanced aesthetics as much as wearability. The slimmer lugs and rebalanced proportions create a more streamlined profile without changing the Submariner's iconic silhouette.

Powered by the next-generation caliber 3235 movement, the 126618LB offers enhanced precision, 70-hour power reserve, and increased magnetic resistance. The visual presentation remains breathtaking - the sunburst blue dial creates dynamic light play against the solid 18k yellow gold case and bracelet. The ceramic bezel retains its rich blue hue indefinitely, and the upgraded Oysterlock safety clasp provides enhanced security with the Glidelock extension system for perfect fit adjustments without tools.

Ref. 16618

The Rolex 16618 blue produced from 1988 to 2008 represents the transition to modern Submariner design while maintaining vintage charm. This reference introduced sapphire crystal and the unidirectional rotating bezel - significant upgrades from earlier models. The 16618 features the distinctive blue aluminum bezel insert that develops a unique patina over time, highly prized by collectors.

Equipped with the caliber 3135 movement, the 16618 established the level of dependability that became the hallmark of contemporary Rolex watches. The tritium luminescent material of early production years gives way to SuperLuminova in later examples, creating collecting nuances for enthusiasts to appreciate. The solid 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet with the now-iconic fliplock clasp completes the luxurious yet functional package that defined a generation of gold Submariners.

Ref. 16808

The Submariner 16808 blue dial represents a transitional period in the collection's evolution, produced from approximately 1979 to 1988. This reference marked significant advancements, including the introduction of a sapphire crystal replacing the previous acrylic versions, and upgrading to a quickset date function with the caliber 3035 movement - practical improvements that enhanced the user experience.

Distinguished by its rich blue dial and matching blue aluminum bezel insert, the 16808 carries the quintessential two-tone aesthetic in a slightly more vintage package. The nipple dial variants feature distinctive raised gold hour markers that command premium prices among collectors today. With its perfect balance of historical significance and technical improvement, the 16808 serves as an important bridge between early gold Submariners and their modern counterparts.

Ref. 1680

The Submariner 1680 blue is the first mode to bring the date complication to the Submariner line, showcasing a true collector's dream when found in yellow gold with the blue dial variation. Produced in the 1970s, this reference features an acrylic crystal and bidirectional rotating bezel that are signatures of vintage Submariners, offering authentic period charm that cannot be replicated in modern productions.

With its matte blue dial, painted hour markers, and distinctive gold surrounds, the blue 1680 in gold possesses unmistakable vintage character. The caliber 1575 movement powers this classic, and while it lacks the quickset date functionality of later models, it compensates with historical importance and investment potential. For collectors, the 1680 represents the genesis of the gold Submariner with date complication - an important horological milestone in blue and gold.

Rolex Submariner Gold Blue Specifications

The Submariner Blue and Gold line combines master diving functionality with luxurious styles in a package that has defined wristwatch perfection for decades. Each reference is made with meticulous engineering for durability, precision, and elegance - the hallmarks of Rolex craftsmanship. Specifications have been refined over generations, but the commitment to perfection runs through every blue and gold Submariner.

Materials

The Submariner Blue and Gold is a testament to Rolex's meticulous attention to material selection, combining precious metals with highly advanced technical components to create a watch that perfectly balances opulence with utility:

• 18k Yellow Gold Case: Cast in Rolex's in-house foundry using a proprietary alloy, ensuring color stability and superior corrosion resistance.
• Cerachrom Bezel Insert: A scratch-resistant ceramic material found on post-2008 models, maintaining its vibrant blue color indefinitely and resisting UV fading.
• Aluminum Bezel Insert: Featured on vintage references, this material develops a unique, character-rich patina over time, highly prized by collectors.
• Sapphire Crystal: A virtually scratch-proof synthetic crystal with an anti-reflective coating that enhances legibility in all conditions.
• Triplock Crown System: Triple waterproofness gaskets arranged in a specialized configuration to ensure watertight integrity even under extreme pressure.
• 904L Stainless Steel Components: Used in internal bracelet clasps and movement parts, offering exceptional corrosion resistance while maintaining a lustrous finish even after decades of wear.

Movement

The evolution of Submariner movements shows Rolex's commitment to horological advancement. Every generation that follows is the pinnacle of watchmaking technology of its era. These automatic calibers combine precision, reliability, and resistance to a range of environmental conditions:

• Caliber 3235 (126618LB, 2020-present): Features the innovative Chronergy escapement, providing a 70-hour power reserve and -2/+2 seconds daily accuracy, with enhanced magnetic resistance via a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring.
• Caliber 3135 (116618LB, 2008-2020; 16618, 1988-2008): Known for its legendary reliability, this movement offers a 48-hour power reserve and COSC certification.
• Caliber 3035 (16808, 1979-1988): Introduced quickset date functionality, offering a 42-hour power reserve and 28,800 vph operating frequency for improved user convenience.
• Caliber 1575 (1680, 1969-1979): A historic movement without a quickset date, featuring the durable "butterfly" rotor design and 19,800 vph frequency, powering the first gold Submariners with a date function.

Dial

The blue dial, the signature visual trademark of these luxury watches, evolves subtly with various references but still maintains the distinctive Submariner DNA. Each variant has unique visual attractiveness that collectors seek out.

• Sunburst Finish (126618LB, 116618LB): Creates dynamic light play that radiates from the center, shifting from deep navy to brilliant azure depending on lighting conditions.
• Matte Finish (early 1680, 16808): Found on vintage references through the early 1980s, providing a more subdued, tool-watch aesthetic with a consistent color appearance.
• Applied Hour Markers: Crafted from 18k gold, preventing tarnishing while offering a luxury contrast against the blue background, with unique shapes at 12, 6, and 9 o'clock.
• Mercedes Hands Set: Iconic three-pointed hour hand, paired with a straight minute hand and lollipop seconds hand - all crafted from polished gold for maximum legibility.
• Luminous Evolution: Transitioned from radium (pre-1963) to tritium (1963-1998, marked "T<25") to SuperLuminova (1998-2008) to Chromalight (post-2008), emitting a distinctive blue glow.
• Nipple Dial Variants: Raised gold hour markers with a distinctive conical shape, found on select 16808 and early 16618 references, commanding premium prices among collectors.
• Date Display: 3 o'clock aperture with Cyclops lens magnification (2.5x) for enhanced readability—an essential Rolex signature feature.

Bracelet

The 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet is the perfect balance of functional design with a luxurious presence. This component is a crucial aspect of both the watch's aesthetics and wearability, with subtle evolutionary tweaks across each generation:

• Three-Piece Link Architecture: Iconic Oyster design, balancing comfort and durability, with solid links machined from 18k yellow gold for a substantial wrist presence.
• Solid End Links (SELs): Integrated seamlessly with the case for structural integrity and visual continuity, eliminating gaps found in earlier hollow end link designs.
• Oysterlock Safety Clasp (126618LB, 116618LB): A sophisticated folding mechanism with additional security features to prevent accidental opening.
• Glidelock Extension System (126618LB, 116618LB): Precision adjustment mechanism allowing 2mm increments up to 20mm total, ideal for accommodating a wetsuit or comfort adjustments.
• Fliplock Extension (16618, 16808, 1680): Classic wetsuit extension system, adding approximately 26mm of length for diving applications.
• Machined Components: Each link and clasp component is precision-manufactured to tolerances of 1/100th of a millimeter for perfect articulation.
• Link Evolution: Progressed from folded links (early 1680) to solid links with improved profile and finishing techniques in later references.

Size

The proportions of the Submariner Blue and Gold have been carefully refined over generations, with subtle changes enhancing both aesthetics and wearability while maintaining the iconic silhouette:

• Diameter: Modern references (126618LB) measure 41mm, while earlier models (116618, 16618, 16808, 1680) measure 40mm.
• Thickness: Approximately 13mm across most references, with subtle variations between generations.
• Lug to Lug: Approximately 48mm on modern references, with slightly shorter measurements on vintage models.
• Lug Width: 20mm across all references, ensuring compatibility with accessories while maintaining proportional design.

Water Resistance

Despite their precious metal construction, Submariner Blue and Gold models maintain authentic diving watch capabilities with impressive water resistance. This technical prowess demonstrates Rolex's uncompromising commitment to functional integrity regardless of aesthetic considerations:

• Depth Rating Evolution: 300 meters (1,000 feet) on current models (126618LB, 116618LB, 16618); 200 meters (660 feet) on earlier references (16808, 1680).
• Triplock Crown System: Three separate gaskets arranged in a specialized configuration to create redundant water barriers, first introduced on reference 16808.
• Screw-Down Case Back: Hermetically seals the movement chamber with a compressive gasket system, precision-machined from solid gold with specific torque requirements.
• Pressure Testing: Each watch is individually tested in hyperbaric chambers at pressures exceeding its rated depth, with a 25% safety margin.
• Helium Escape Valve: Purposely excluded from the design, as Rolex reserved this feature exclusively for the Sea-Dweller line of professional saturation diving watches.
• Unidirectional Rotating Bezel: A safety feature preventing accidental extension of dive times—clicks in one direction only, with 120 positions for precise timing.
• Case Architecture: Monobloc middle case construction milled from a solid gold block, creating superior structural integrity compared to multi-part cases.

Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold Price

The Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold, ref. 126618LB, carries a retail price of approximately $43,500 at authorized retailers - a significant investment that is warranted by its precious metal construction, technical sophistication, and rich heritage. However, high demand and limited supply often lead to long waiting lists at official retailers, leading many enthusiasts to look to the pre-owned market, where excellent watches are more readily available. Pre-owned pieces do sometimes come at a premium price, particularly for unworn examples.

In the pre-owned market, Submariner Blue and Gold prices vary based on reference, condition, age, provenance, and overall market demand. The discontinued reference 116618LB typically trades between $30,000 and $40,000, depending on condition and included accessories. Older references like the 16618 generally range from $20,000 to $30,000, while vintage examples such as the 16808 and extremely rare 1680 blue dial variants can command $25,000 to well above $50,000 for exceptional specimens with original documentation and period-correct features.

When considering investing in a Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold, thorough research and consultation with reputable dealers are essential. Authenticity verification is crucial, as counterfeit models can impact both investment value and collector satisfaction. For deeper insights into the entire Submariner Blue collection, we recommend reading our comprehensive Rolex Submariner Blue buying guide, which offers valuable information for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of luxury horology.

Expert Opinion

"The Rolex Submariner Blue and Gold collection is a crown jewel within luxury sports watches. Each timepiece is a perfect synthesis of technical excellence and opulent aesthetics that has remained a consistent Rolex tradition for generations. The blue dial and bezel against warm yellow gold creates a visual contrast that is timeless, transcending mere fashion to become a horological icon."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches

Why Choose Us

Selecting Bob's Watches for your Submariner Blue and Gold ensures access to authentic, carefully curated timepieces backed by decades of specialized expertise. Our in-depth knowledge of Rolex watches, particularly precious metal variants like the gold Submariner, allows us to offer exceptional examples that meet the highest standards of condition and originality while providing transparent value in an often opaque market.

Our industry-leading authentication process involves multiple expert evaluations of every timepiece, confirming genuine Rolex components from case to movement. We provide detailed documentation, including serial verification, movement inspection, and comprehensive condition reports with high-resolution photography. This commitment to transparency creates absolute confidence in your purchase, protecting your investment while ensuring you receive exactly the timepiece you expect and deserve.

Sell Your Submariner Blue and Gold

Experience the art of distinguished transactions in selling your Submariner Blue and Gold through Bob's Watches. Our promise is to honor your timepiece with a seamless and respectful process that honors the incredible value of your Rolex. We offer competitive quotes based on real market data, not arbitrary deductions or hidden fees that diminish your return.

Trust in our expertise, and let us guide you through every step, ensuring your Submariner's journey continues with distinction in hands that will truly appreciate its significance. Get started today by visiting our "Sell My Rolex" page for a straightforward evaluation and honest offer.