Rolex Submariner

Buying Advice

Choosing Your Rolex Submariner

If you are looking to buy a Rolex Submariner, the lineup is smaller than most people expect, but every configuration serves a distinct purpose. Whether you want a pre-owned Rolex Submariner in steel, gold, or two-tone, it helps to settle a few key decisions before you shop: Date or No-Date, size generation, and material. The Rolex Submariner is one of the most recognizable dive watches ever made, and the pre-owned market offers access to both current production models and sought-after discontinued references. If you are weighing the Submariner against the Rolex Sea-Dweller, the main differences are case thickness, depth rating, and the presence of a helium escape valve on the Sea-Dweller.

Rolex Submariner Date vs. No-Date

The Submariner Date adds a date window at 3 o'clock with a magnifying cyclops lens, which is practical for daily wear. The Submariner No-Date offers a symmetrical dial with no cyclops, making it the preferred choice for buyers who value a clean, balanced look. Both share the same case construction, Oyster bracelet, and 300-meter water resistance. The decision comes down to aesthetics and whether you use the date function regularly. The current No-Date is the Rolex 124060, while the current Date model is the Rolex 126610.

Rolex Submariner Size

Current-production Submariners measure 41mm, introduced in 2020 with the latest generation. The previous generation (references 116610, 114060, and earlier) comes in at 40mm. Both sizes wear comfortably on most wrists. If you prefer a slightly more compact fit, explore the Rolex 40mm options. For the current-size models, browse Rolex 41mm watches. For a broader look at how Rolex sizes compare across models, read our guide to the most popular Rolex sizes.

Rolex Submariner Materials

The Submariner is available in three material tiers. Stainless steel Rolex models in Oystersteel (904L) are the most popular and accessible. Two-tone Rolex Rolesor models pair Oystersteel with 18k yellow gold for a more luxurious look at a mid-range price point. Full 18k gold Rolex Submariners sit at the top of the range, available in yellow gold with either a black or blue dial and bezel combination. There is no white gold or Everose gold Submariner in the current lineup.

Rolex Submariner Colors and Nicknames

The Submariner lineup includes several dial and bezel combinations that collectors have given nicknames over the years. The Rolex Hulk (116610LV) features a green dial and green ceramic bezel, and is one of the most collectible discontinued Submariners. Its successor, the Rolex Starbucks (126610LV), keeps the green bezel but pairs it with a black dial. The Rolex Bluesy refers to two-tone Submariners with a blue dial and blue bezel, available in both current and previous-generation references. The Rolex Kermit (16610LV) is the original green-bezel Submariner with an aluminum insert, released for the model's 50th anniversary. Most standard Submariners feature a black Rolex dial and bezel, while blue Rolex options appear on two-tone and gold configurations.

Rolex Submariner Reference Numbers

The Rolex 126610 is the current-production Submariner Date, powered by the Caliber 3235 with a 70-hour power reserve. The Rolex 124060 is the current No-Date model, running the Caliber 3230. The Rolex 116610 is the previous-generation Date model (2010 to 2020), the first Submariner with a ceramic Cerachrom bezel. The Rolex 16610 is the classic neo-vintage Submariner Date (1989 to 2010), featuring an aluminum bezel insert and tritium or Luminova lume. The Rolex 14060 is its No-Date counterpart from the same era. The Rolex 126613 is the current two-tone Submariner, available in blue (126613LB) or black (126613LN). For the complete reference breakdown, read our Rolex Submariner Buyer's Guide.

Rolex Submariner Price

Rolex Submariner prices on the pre-owned market vary by reference, material, and condition. Stainless steel models typically fall between $8,000 and $16,000, with the No-Date 124060 and black-dial 126610LN sitting in the middle of that range. Two-tone Rolesor Submariners start around $14,000 and can reach $20,000+ depending on the reference and condition. Full gold Rolex Submariner models range from $25,000 to $45,000. Discontinued references like the Hulk (116610LV) and Kermit (16610LV) often carry a premium above current-production equivalents. For the most accurate Rolex Submariner price on a specific reference, reach out to our team directly.

ROBERTINO'S TIP | WATCHGUYS CEO

"Think about how you dress, what fits your wrist, and whether this is an office watch, a weekend watch, or both. Those answers will guide you to the right Submariner faster than any spec sheet. Need help narrowing it down? Call us or text us."

Trusted Dealer

Why Buy a Rolex Submariner From WatchGuys

The Rolex Submariner is one of the most counterfeited watches in the world. Buying from a trusted dealer is not optional. Every pre-owned Rolex Submariner for sale at WatchGuys goes through a thorough authentication and inspection process before it reaches our site. Here is what that means for you.

Common Questions

Rolex Submariner FAQ

• How Much Does a Rolex Submariner Cost?

  Rolex Submariner prices on the pre-owned market depend on the reference, material, year, and condition. Stainless steel models like the Submariner 124060 and 126610LN typically range from $8,000 to $16,000. Two-tone Rolesor Submariners start around $14,000. Full gold Rolex Submariner models range from $25,000 to $45,000. Discontinued references and rare vintage models may command higher prices. For current Rolex Submariner price points across every reference we carry, contact our team directly.

• What Size Rolex Submariner Should I Buy?

  Current-production Submariners are 41mm. The previous generation (produced until 2020) measures 40mm. Both sizes wear well on most wrists, but if you have a smaller wrist or prefer a more compact profile, the 40mm references may feel more comfortable. Our team can help you compare specific references in each size category.

• What Is the Difference Between the Rolex Submariner Date and No-Date?

  The Submariner Date includes a date window at 3 o'clock with a cyclops magnification lens. The No-Date model has a fully symmetrical dial without a date aperture or cyclops. Both share identical case construction, water resistance, and bracelet design. The Date model is generally priced slightly higher. Many collectors prefer the No-Date for its cleaner aesthetic, while the Date version is more practical for daily wear.

• Is a Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Worth Buying?

  A pre-owned Rolex Submariner offers access to current and discontinued references at prices below retail, with the added benefit of immediate availability. New Submariners remain difficult to purchase from authorized dealers due to high demand. Buying pre-owned also lets you choose from a wider range of references, including collectible models that Rolex no longer produces. Every pre-owned Submariner at WatchGuys is authenticated, accurately described, and backed by a 2-year warranty.

• What Should I Look for When Buying a Used Rolex Submariner?

  Verify that the dealer provides authentication for every component: case, dial, movement, bracelet, and serial number. Check that the listing includes the exact reference number, production year, condition notes, and high-resolution photos. Ask about service history and whether the watch has been polished. Confirm the return policy and warranty coverage before purchasing. Buying from a reputable dealer with a documented inspection process is the most important step you can take.

• Does the Rolex Submariner Hold Its Value?

  The Rolex Submariner is one of the strongest value holders in the pre-owned watch market. Stainless steel models in particular have maintained or appreciated in value over the past decade. Discontinued references like the 116610LV (Hulk) and 16610LV (Kermit) have seen significant appreciation since leaving production. The Submariner's combination of brand recognition, limited retail availability, and collector demand makes it a reliable store of value.

• What Is the Difference Between the Rolex Submariner and Rolex Sea-Dweller?

  The Rolex Sea-Dweller is designed for deeper saturation diving, with a higher depth rating (up to 3,900 feet on the Deepsea) and a helium escape valve. The Submariner is rated to 300 meters (1,000 feet) and does not include a helium valve. The Sea-Dweller is thicker and heavier as a result. Most buyers who do not require extreme depth ratings prefer the Submariner for its slimmer profile and more versatile wear.

• Does a Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Come With Box and Papers?

  Box and papers availability varies by listing. Some pre-owned Submariners include the original box, warranty card, and documentation, while others may come with partial or no accessories. Box and papers can affect resale value, particularly for newer references where buyers expect full sets. Every WatchGuys listing specifies exactly what is included, so you know before you purchase. If having box and papers is important to you, our team can help you find a complete set.

• Is the Rolex Submariner Water Resistant Enough for Swimming and Diving?

  All modern Submariners are rated to 300 meters (1,000 feet) of water resistance, making them fully capable dive watches. Older references may have lower depth ratings. To maintain water resistance, the crown should always be screwed down, and gaskets should be inspected periodically. If you plan to dive or swim with a pre-owned Submariner, we recommend having the water resistance tested before use. Ceramic (Cerachrom) bezels found on models from 2008 onward resist scratching and UV fading far better than the aluminum inserts used on earlier references.

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