Our remarks

Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16618, 18k Yellow Gold, Blue Tritium Dial, 1994, Full Length Oyster Bracelet, Box

A golden Submariner has always been a watch with a double life. It is a real dive watch, water resistant to 300 meters, and at the same time one of the most luxurious sports watches Rolex has ever made. The reference 16618 is the classic version of the 1990s, and in yellow gold with a blue dial, it shows exactly why collectors call it the “Bluesy” in its purest form. Compared to its modern successors, it has slimmer lugs and a more delicate case, which many collectors now prefer.

The 40 mm Oyster case is made of 18 karat yellow gold and closed with the Triplock crown. The unidirectional rotating bezel carries a blue aluminium insert with gold numerals. Over the years, these inserts develop a soft, individual character that many collectors love. The sapphire crystal with the Cyclops lens protects the dial.

The blue dial is what makes this watch so attractive. The deep blue shimmers in the light and works beautifully with the warm tone of the gold. The gold-framed hour markers are filled with tritium, which has aged evenly and gives the dial a gentle vintage warmth. Tritium dials were only used until the late 1990s, so this detail makes the watch especially interesting for collectors. The gold hands complete the harmonious look.

Inside works the Rolex caliber 3135, a self-winding chronometer movement regarded as one of the most reliable Rolex has ever built.

The watch sits on a solid 18 karat yellow gold Oyster bracelet (no screws but pinned) in full length. Many gold bracelets have been shortened over the years, so a full-length gold bracelet with all its original links is a real plus, both for comfort and for value.

The watch dates from 1994 and is in very good condition. It comes with a Rolex box.

"A true gold Submariner from the golden tritium era, in very good condtion with its mesmerizing blue dial - still quite a statement on the wrist"