The Rolex Submariner is one of the most iconic luxury watches in the world. Its price is highly varied based on materials, date of manufacture, and supply and demand – with prices ranging from affordable stainless steel models to very rare collector’s pieces with six-figure prices. This comprehensive guide walks you through the complete price spectrum for new and pre-owned models, explores historical pricing trends, and describes the key factors that will ultimately determine what you will pay for this cult-favored timepiece.
What Affects Rolex Submariner Prices?
Understanding the key factors that influence Submariner pricing helps you make informed decisions when purchasing or selling. Whether you’re considering your first Rolex or adding to your existing collection, these elements directly impact the watch’s market value and long-term investment potential.
Material and Construction
The material used in a Rolex Submariner is a crucial factor in determining its price. Rolex offers models in stainless steel, yellow gold, and white gold, with each material influencing the overall cost due to factors like rarity, durability, and craftsmanship.
- Stainless Steel: Generally, the most affordable option, offering the durability Rolex is known for.
- Yellow/White Gold: Adds significant value due to the precious metal, with higher prices for two-tone and all-gold variants.
Year of Manufacture and Model Variants
The year of manufacture has a significant impact on price, as some discontinued and vintage models tend to appreciate in value over time. Special editions or limited production models may also vary in price depending on their rarity and overall demand from collectors.
- Vintage Models: Older models like the Rolex Submariner 16610 (discontinued) may command higher prices due to rarity and collector demand.
- Current Model: Newer models typically come with a higher base price, reflecting Rolex’s ongoing innovation.
- Special Editions: Limited-run models, such as the Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary (Kermit) or other special variants, often see price premiums due to their exclusivity.
Condition (New vs. Pre-Owned vs. Vintage)
The condition of the Rolex Submariner greatly affects its price. A brand-new, unworn model will generally have a higher price tag than a pre-owned or vintage piece, especially when considering factors like wear, service history, and original documentation.
- New: Brand-new Rolex Submariners are priced at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and offer the full Rolex warranty.
- Pre-Owned: Pre-owned models are often priced lower than new models, with adjustments made based on condition, age, and whether the original packaging and papers are included.
- Vintage: Vintage models can range from more affordable options to high-end collector pieces, depending on their rarity, condition, and historical significance.
- Documentation and Service History: Watches with service records or original documentation (like papers and boxes) typically hold a higher value than those without.
These three factors – material, year/model, and condition – directly influence the pricing tables you’ll see in the following sections. Now, let’s examine how these elements translate into actual market prices for both current and discontinued models.
Rolex Submariner Retail Price: Current Production Models
In 2025, the Rolex Submariner still reigns supreme in the luxury dive watch segment. The current lineup includes various configurations differentiated by materials, complications, and detail in their overall design. These retail prices reflect new watches sold through authorized retailers, but limited supply and long waiting lists are now considered the standard for the Rolex buying experience.
When you purchase a new Submariner, you’re investing in exceptional craftsmanship and a legacy of innovation. The pricing structure below reflects both the intrinsic value of materials used and the premium associated with the Rolex name.
Rolex Submariner Date (Stainless Steel)
The stainless steel Submariner Date offers an excellent entry point into this iconic collection. With its combination of durability and elegance, it remains highly sought after by first-time buyers and experienced collectors alike. The classic black dial version anchors the lineup, while colored variants typically command premium pricing due to their distinctive aesthetics and more limited availability at authorized dealers.
Below, you will find recent prices for the most desirable stainless steel Submariner Date watches. Notice how limited models like the “Hulk” and “Kermit” have significant premiums over the standard black dial model. The price differences accurately reflect the material considerations discussed above, with all models sharing the same steel construction but vary in terms of their color schemes and overall collector appeal.
| Model Reference | Description | Price (New) |
| 126610LN | Black Dial, Black Bezel (Current) | $10,400 |
| 126610LV | Black Dial, Green Bezel “Starbucks” (Current) | $10,900 |
| 116610LV | Green Dial, Green Bezel “Hulk” (Discontinued) | $20,000 |
| 16610LV | Black Dial, Green Bezel “Kermit” (Discontinued) | $18,000 |
| 16610 | Black Dial, Aluminum Bezel (Discontinued) | $12,000 |
Rolex Submariner No-Date
The Submariner No-Date presents a purist approach with a cleaner dial that omits the date complication. This model appeals to collectors who appreciate symmetrical dial design and connection to the original Submariner concept. The absence of the date window creates a balanced dial that captures the essence of the 1953 original.
In the pricing table below, you’ll see that the No-Date models are generally more affordable than their Date counterparts, despite offering identical build quality and water resistance. Pay particular attention to the price differences between current ceramic models and discontinued aluminum bezel versions. This comparison clearly illustrates how production year – the second factor we discussed – directly impacts market value.
| Model Reference | Description | Price (New) |
| 124060 | Black Dial, Black Bezel (Current) | $9,200 |
| 14060M | Black Dial, Aluminum Bezel (Discontinued) | $10,000 |
Rolex Submariner in Precious Materials (Gold, Two-Tone, etc.)
The Submariner collection includes precious metal models for those who seek a more luxurious option. The models combine the functionality of a professional diving watch with the opulence of gold, creating a striking contrast that attracts consumers seeking performance coupled with prestige.
The pricing table below dramatically illustrates how material choice – our first key pricing factor – impacts cost. Compare these figures to the stainless steel models above to see the premium commanded by precious metals. Note particularly the significant price jump between two-tone models and solid gold versions, as well as the additional premium for white gold “Cookie Monster” models, which represent the pinnacle of the current Submariner lineup.
| Model Reference | Description | Price (New) |
| 126613LB | Steel & Gold, Blue Dial “Bluesy” | $17,000 |
| 126618LB | Yellow Gold, Blue Dial | $43,500 |
| 126619LB | White Gold, Blue Dial “Cookie Monster” | $46,600 |
| 126613LN | Steel & Gold, Black Dial | $17,000 |
As you can see from these tables, material choice significantly impacts pricing, with precious metal models commanding substantial premiums over stainless steel versions. The current production models represent the latest evolution of the Submariner design, but the pre-owned market offers additional options worth exploring.
| Model Reference | Retail Price (USD) | Production Status | Production Year (Approx.) |
| 126610LN | $10,400 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 116610LV | $10,900 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 16610 | $12,000 | Discontinued | 1989-2010 |
| 16610LV | $18,000 | Discontinued | 2003-2020 |
| 124060 | $9,200 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 14060M | $10,000 | Discontinued | 1990-2000 |
| 5513 | $3,500 | Vintage | 1960s-1980s |
| 5512 | $3,000 | Vintage | 1970s-1990s |
| 126613LB | $17,000 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 116618LB | $43,500 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 16613 | $17,000 | Discontinued | 1980s-2000s |
| 16808 | $25,000 | Vintage | 1980s-1990s |
| 6538 | $150,000 | Vintage | 1950s-1970s |
| 5517 | $180,000 | Vintage | 1970s-2000s |
| 1680 | $25,000 | Vintage | 1960s-1970s |
| 16800 | $15,000 | Vintage | 1979-1988 |
Used Rolex Submariner Price: Pre-Owned & Discontinued Models
The pre-owned Rolex Submariner market provides access to newer models and vintage pieces spanning the many decades of production. Prices in this range vary widely based on rarity, condition, and demand among collectors – with discontinued pieces often commanding significant premiums. As discussed in our condition section, pre-owned watches must be evaluated on a host of considerations beyond just the reference number alone.
The secondary market offers immediate access to models that might otherwise have multi-year waitlists at authorized dealers. When exploring pre-owned options, condition, originality, and documentation significantly impact valuation.
Rolex Submariner Date (Pre-Owned Models)
Pre-owned Submariner Date models offer excellent value, particularly for buyers seeking recent references with modern features. The secondary market eliminates waiting lists typical at authorized dealers, though popular discontinued models often trade above their original retail prices due to scarcity and collector demand.
The table below provides current market prices for pre-owned Submariner Date models from different eras. Observe the premium pricing on the discontinued “Hulk” (116610LV) which now can be sold for more than double its initial retail. The price data here visually substantiates how condition and date of production both play a role in influencing value within the secondary market. Keep in mind that all prices assume excellent condition with a complete set of box and papers.
| Model Reference | Description | Pre-Owned Price |
| 126610LN | Black Dial, Black Bezel (Current) | $12,800 – $14,500 |
| 116610LV | Green Dial, Green Bezel “Hulk” | $17,000 – $27,000 |
| 16610 | Black Dial, Aluminum Bezel | $9,000 – $12,000 |
| 16610LV | Black Dial, Green Bezel “Kermit” | $15,000 – $24,000 |
Rolex Submariner No-Date (Pre-Owned Models)
The pre-owned No-Date Submariner market includes models from various production eras that showcase the evolution of this iconic design. The simplified dial layout and function make these watches timelessly appealing, with certain discontinued references attracting significant collector interest. The absence of the date mechanism also means fewer potential service issues, making these models attractive to buyers concerned with long-term reliability.
In the pricing table below, you’ll notice a fascinating trend that illustrates our earlier discussion about vintage models. The oldest references (5513 and 5512) often command higher prices than more recent models, despite their technically inferior specifications. This pricing inversion demonstrates how collector demand and historical significance can outweigh technical considerations in the vintage market. Compare these figures with new model prices to understand the premium placed on vintage Submariner references.
| Model Reference | Description | Pre-Owned Price |
| 124060 | Current Ceramic Black Bezel | $11,000 – $15,000 |
| 14060M | Last Aluminum Bezel Model | $9,500 – $13,500 |
| 5513 | Vintage Model (1960s-1980s) | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| 5512 | Vintage Chronometer Model | $18,000 – $40,000 |
Rolex Submariner in Precious Materials (Pre-Owned Models)
Pre-owned Submariners in two-tone and gold configurations offer more value than their brand-new counterparts. While still commanding premium prices, the secondary market offers entry into prestigious models at more favorable valuations. The depreciation curve on precious metal models tends to be more pronounced, offering potential bargains for informed buyers.
The table below reveals an important market dynamic for precious-metal Submariners. Unlike stainless steel models, which often appreciate immediately after purchase, gold and two-tone models typically experience initial depreciation before potentially appreciating later. This pricing data illustrates why the condition is particularly crucial when evaluating precious metal models – minor cosmetic issues can significantly impact their market value. Note the substantial discount compared to the new model prices shown earlier.
| Model Reference | Description | Pre-Owned Price |
| 126613LB | Steel & Gold, Blue Dial “Bluesy” (Current) | $13,500 – $16,500 |
| 116618LB | Yellow Gold, Blue Dial | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| 16613 | Steel & Gold, Blue Dial (Discontinued) | $12,000 – $15,000 |
| 16808 | Yellow Gold, Blue Dial (Vintage) | $25,000 – $40,000 |
Vintage and Rare Discontinued Models
The vintage Submariner market represents the pinnacle of collector interest, with rare references and historically significant models achieving extraordinary valuations. Early Submariners from the 1950s and 1960s, particularly those with unique dial variations or military provenance, have become investment-grade assets that connect owners to pivotal moments in watchmaking history.
The following price chart reveals the incredible premium that historically significant models command. The figures demonstrate how the three factors we’ve discussed – material, year of production, and condition – compound to produce spectacular value in the vintage marketplace. Note the astronomical prices for military-issue models and early “Big Crown” pieces. These prices reflect not just the watches themselves, but also their cultural significance and overall rarity. With vintage watches, provenance and originality tend to trump absolute condition.
| Model Reference | Description | Pre-Owned Price |
| 6538 | “Big Crown” James Bond Submariner | $150,000 – $500,000+ |
| 5517 | Military Issued MilSub | $180,000 – $600,000+ |
| 1680 | “Red Submariner” | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| 16800 | Transitional Model (1979-1988) | $15,000 – $25,000 |
As demonstrated in these pricing tables, the pre-owned market reveals how the factors of material, production year, and condition directly impact valuation. Discontinued models with collector appeal often appreciate significantly, while newer pre-owned models typically offer modest discounts compared to retail pricing.
| Model Reference | Pre-Owned Price Range (USD) | Production Status | Production Year (Approx.) |
| 126610LN | $12,800 – $14,500 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 116610LV | $17,000 – $27,000 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 16610 | $9,000 – $12,000 | Discontinued | 1989-2010 |
| 16610LV | $15,000 – $24,000 | Discontinued | 2003-2020 |
| 124060 | $11,000 – $15,000 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 14060M | $9,500 – $13,500 | Discontinued | 1990-2000 |
| 5513 | $12,000 – $25,000 | Vintage | 1960s-1980s |
| 5512 | $18,000 – $40,000 | Vintage | 1970s-1990s |
| 126613LB | $13,500 – $16,500 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 116618LB | $30,000 – $40,000 | Current | 2020-Present |
| 16613 | $12,000 – $15,000 | Discontinued | 1980s-2000s |
| 16808 | $25,000 – $40,000 | Vintage | 1980s-1990s |
| 6538 | $150,000 – $500,000+ | Vintage | 1950s-1970s |
| 5517 | $180,000 – $600,000+ | Vintage | 1970s-2000s |
| 1680 | $25,000 – $45,000 | Vintage | 1960s-1970s |
| 16800 | $15,000 – $25,000 | Vintage | 1979-1988 |
How Does the Secondary Market Influence the Rolex Submariner Cost?
The relationship between retail pricing and the secondary market creates a fascinating dynamic in the Rolex ecosystem. The secondary market often serves as the true barometer of a watch’s value, with supply and demand forces sometimes pushing prices well beyond original retail figures. Understanding these market mechanisms helps buyers and sellers make informed decisions.
Rolex Submariner Market Trends Over the Last Decade
Rolex Submariner values have appreciated incredibly over the past decade. The stainless steel versions have been the most pronounced, with some references doubling in value at the height of demand. This curve is a reflection of both increasing worldwide wealth and Rolex’s strategic production levels, which combine to create a perfect scenario of high demand and controlled supply.
Market corrections periodically occur, particularly during economic downturns, but the long-term trend for desirable Submariner models has consistently pointed upward. Collectors who purchased key references five years ago have often seen substantial returns, particularly with discontinued models like the “Hulk” and pre-ceramic references that are no longer in production but remain highly desirable.
What Makes a Rolex Submariner an Investment Watch?
The Submariner’s investment potential stems from several key factors that distinguish it from other luxury watches. First, Rolex maintains strict production discipline, never flooding the market even when demand spikes. This controlled availability ensures that supply rarely meets demand for popular models.
Moreover, the Submariner’s look has stayed relatively consistent for decades, which has contributed to its timeless style that never appears outdated. If Rolex does introduce changes, they are usually evolutionary in nature and not revolutionary, which maintains the watch’s inherent appeal while also developing distinct collecting categories. All these elements, along with the unparalleled prestige of the Rolex brand, set the perfect conditions for value retention and long-term appreciation.
Is the Rolex Submariner Worth the Price?
When considering a significant investment in a luxury timepiece, the question of value naturally arises. The Submariner commands premium pricing that deserves careful consideration. For many owners, the watch represents more than a timekeeping instrument – it’s a milestone achievement, a potential heirloom, and often a sound financial decision.
The Craftsmanship and Features
The Submariner’s value begins with its exceptional construction quality and capabilities. Each watch requires approximately one year to produce, with hundreds of precision components assembled by skilled watchmakers to exacting standards. The Rolex 3230 (No-Date) and 3235 (Date) movements deliver excellent accuracy and reliability, with power reserves exceeding 70 hours and superlative chronometer certification.
The case construction is an emblem of elegant dive watch engineering, incorporating 300 meters of water resistance, a unidirectional rotatable bezel, and the patented Triplock crown system for watertight protection. The sapphire crystal provides scratch resistance, while the Chromalight luminescent display delivers excellent legibility even in low lighting conditions. All of these elements are the result of decades of relentless refinement and innovation.
The Resale Value of Rolex Submariner
Perhaps the most compelling argument for the Submariner’s value comes from its exceptional performance as a store of wealth. Unlike most luxury purchases that depreciate immediately, Rolex Submariners typically maintain their value remarkably well, with many models appreciating significantly over time. This financial characteristic transforms the purchase from an expense into a potential investment, particularly for limited production models and discontinued references.
Stainless steel models have shown particularly strong performance, often trading above retail prices on the secondary market due to limited availability through authorized dealers. While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, the decades-long track record of value retention provides confidence for buyers concerned about the financial aspect of ownership.
How Much Does a Rolex Submariner Cost: Final Investment Thoughts
The Rolex Submariner is considered the standard for luxury sports watches, and its pricing is a testament to its superior craftsmanship, brand reputation, and position in the market. Whether crafted in stainless steel or precious metals, new or vintage, the Submariner offers a winning combination of durability, aesthetics, and investment value that warrants its premium status in the watch market. The admission price offers not only an incredible watch but also access to a legacy of excellence that extends nearly seven decades.
For those ready to make their purchase, Bob’s Watches offers an exceptional selection of authenticated Submariners spanning every era and configuration. Our curated collection includes everything from the latest ceramic models to vintage treasures, each representing a distinct chapter in the Submariner story. Browse our selection to find the perfect expression of this legendary timepiece that matches your personal style and investment goals.
Whether you’re acquiring your first Rolex or adding to an established collection, understanding the nuances of different Submariner references enhances both the purchasing experience and long-term ownership satisfaction. For a deeper exploration of technical specifications and collecting considerations, our comprehensive Rolex Submariner buying guide provides valuable insights for enthusiasts at all levels. Few timepieces deliver such a compelling blend of immediate satisfaction and enduring value as the Submariner – the standard against which all luxury sports watches are measured.
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