Introductory Summary
The Rolex Submariner Date reference 116618LB is a solid 18ct yellow gold dive watch produced from 2008 until 2020 as part of the ceramic-bezel Submariner generation. Featuring a blue Cerachrom bezel and matching blue dial, it represents the most visually expressive and recognisable full-gold Submariner of its era.
Core Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Collection: Submariner
- Reference: 116618LB
- Production Start: 2008
- Production End: 2020
- Status: Discontinued
- Case Size: 40mm
- Case Material: Yellow Gold
- Bezel: Blue Ceramic, Unidirectional
- Dial: Blue
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Bracelet/Strap: Oyster Bracelet
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3135
- Power Reserve: 48 Hours
- Water Resistance: 300m / 1,000ft
Reference Profile
The 116618LB replaced the aluminium-bezel 16618 blue and introduced the ceramic “maxi case” design with broader lugs and crown guards. Retaining the classic blue-and-gold Submariner colour identity, it delivers a heavier wrist presence and a more contemporary execution while remaining firmly rooted in Rolex’s professional dive watch lineage.
Movement Overview
The watch is powered by the Rolex calibre 3135, an automatic movement that formed the backbone of Rolex’s date-equipped professional models for decades. It offers approximately 48 hours of power reserve, includes a quickset date function, and is widely regarded for its robustness, accuracy, and long-term serviceability.
Functions & Complications
The 116618LB displays hours, minutes, and central seconds, with a date aperture at 3 o’clock magnified by a Cyclops lens. It features a unidirectional 60-minute ceramic dive bezel, a screw-down Triplock crown, water resistance rated to 300 metres, and is fitted to a solid 18ct yellow gold Oyster bracelet with Rolex’s Glidelock extension system for precise, tool-free adjustment.
Buyer Considerations
This reference appeals to buyers seeking maximum visual impact and precious metal presence within the Submariner range. Yellow gold cases and bracelets show wear more readily than steel, particularly on polished surfaces, making condition, polishing history, and full-set completeness critical to long-term value and collectability.
Comparisons & Aternatives
The 116618LB is often compared to its black-dial counterpart, the 116618LN, which offers a more restrained aesthetic, and to later models such as the 126618LB, which introduced a redesigned 41mm case and calibre 3235. Within Rolex’s lineup, the white gold 116619LB provides a more understated luxury alternative, while few competitors offer a comparable full gold professional dive watch.
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