RolexSubmariner

This Rolex Submariner ref. 16618 has been owned in the vendor’s family since new and is accompanied by its box and booklets. The watch condition is exemplary and would suit any fastidious collector looking for a pristine example of this reference. No polishing or refinishing has been applied to the case or bracelet, with sharp and defined edges and original bevelling in the lugs clearly visible. The vendor advises the watch has only been worn a handful of times, and the original case back sticker is still attached. Some minor marks and swirls are visible, and the watch’s condition is within the bounds of the vendor’s ‘A’ grading. 

This ref. 16618 is finished in a handsome combination of blue and gold and offers a luxurious feel to this rugged and robust tool watch. The 40mm Oyster case and bracelet are constructed from solid 18K yellow gold with a blend of brushed and polished surfaces throughout.

The dial has a striking electric blue finish which is complemented by the blue aluminium bezel insert. Yellow gold has been used to create the hour markers and hands with gilt-style script pairing nicely with gold’s warm tones. Housed inside the 300m waterproof case is the tried and tested calibre 3135. This automatic movement is chronometer-certified with a 48-hour power reserve. 

As a desirable reference in its own right, this particular watch has the added appeal of being a “Swiss only” example. This transitional model used a luminous material called Luminova on the dial, signified by the “SWISS” script at 6 o’clock. Rolex utilised this material for a mere 12 months before switching to Super-Luminova and updated the text to “SWISS MADE”, making these examples rare and favoured by collectors. 

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