Our remarks

Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116618LN, 18k Yellow Gold, Black Dial, 2020

A Submariner in solid gold is a bit of a contradiction, and that is exactly what makes it so appealing. It is a proper dive watch with all the toughness that comes with it, dressed in 18 karat yellow gold. The 116618LN combines the two in a way that feels confident without being loud.

The 40 mm Oyster case was the first generation of the Submariner with the stronger case profile and broader lugs. It is water resistant to 300 meters and sealed with the Triplock crown. The black Cerachrom bezel insert is made of ceramic, so it keeps its deep black and stays practically scratch resistant. The graduations on the bezel are coated in gold, which ties it in nicely with the case.

The black dial has the larger "Maxi" markers, framed in gold and filled with Chromalight, which glows blue in the dark. Together with the gold hands it creates a warm contrast against the black that looks very elegant, especially in daylight. The Cyclops lens over the date at 3 o'clock completes the classic Submariner face.

Inside works the Rolex caliber 3135, a self-winding movement that has proven itself over decades and is regarded as one of the most reliable Rolex has ever built. The solid gold Oyster bracelet closes with the Oysterlock clasp and the Glidelock extension, which lets you adjust the length in small steps without tools.

This watch dates from 2020, the year Rolex replaced the 116618LN with its successor. That makes it one of the last examples of this reference. It is in excellent condition and comes with box and papers.

"A gold Submariner you can wear every day, and one that looks better every time you put it on!"