Rolex Submariner 'Smurf' White Gold Blue Ref 116619LB 2018

The Submariner nobody expects. From a metre away the 116619LB reads as a steel Submariner with a blue bezel; it is solid 18-carat white gold throughout, and the moment it comes off the wrist that becomes obvious. Rolex made it from 2008 until the reference was discontinued, and it has never been replaced.

Forty millimetres, blue sunburst dial, blue Cerachrom bezel insert, on the white gold Oyster bracelet with the Glidelock clasp. The dial carries applied white gold markers and the blue hue shifts noticeably with the light.

Inside is calibre 3135, the automatic movement that ran in the Submariner Date for three decades and became the benchmark for a robust dive-watch calibre — Breguet overcoil, Glucydur balance, and a reputation built on how rarely it needs anything. Water-resistant to 300 metres.

Excellent condition, full set with worldwide tag, 2018. A discontinued precious-metal Submariner in complete condition is a narrowing market.

Authenticated by an independent watchmaker before sale. Appointments at our Collins Street boutique in Melbourne, insured delivery Australia-wide. We buy Rolex outright and hold further Rolex in stock.