Rolex Submariner Blue

About Rolex Submariner Blue

The story of the blue Submariner begins as part of the broader Rolex Submariner history, marking a significant evolution in luxury sports watches. When Rolex introduced the blue dial variant, it transformed the utilitarian dive watch into a statement of success and refined taste. The combination of precious metals with the mesmerizing blue dial created an instant classic that would become one of the most sought-after luxury sports watches in the world.

The blue Submariner's journey from professional diving instrument to status symbol parallels Rolex's own evolution as a luxury brand. While maintaining all the professional specifications that made the Submariner famous, the blue variants added an element of sophistication that appealed to both diving enthusiasts and luxury connoisseurs. This perfect balance between functionality and luxury has kept the "Bluesy" in high demand for decades.

Rolex Blue Submariner References

The Rolex Submariner blue dial collection represents some of the most prestigious iterations of this iconic diving watch. Each reference brings its own unique characteristics while maintaining the core DNA that makes the Submariner legendary. From vintage classics to modern masterpieces, these models showcase Rolex's commitment to evolution and excellence in watchmaking.

Ref. 16613

The Rolex Submariner Bluesy 16613 marked a significant milestone in the collection's history, introducing the beloved two-tone steel and yellow gold configuration with a stunning blue dial. This reference, produced from the late 1980s through the early 2000s, features the classic aluminum bezel insert and a design that perfectly balances sportiness with luxury.

The 16613 established many of the aesthetic codes that would define future blue Submariner models, including the sunburst blue dial that seems to change color under different lighting conditions. Its 40mm case size and robust Caliber 3135 movement made it both practical and reliable, while its two-tone composition elevated it above purely tool-watch status.

Ref. 116613

The Rolex 116613 Blue brought the blue Submariner into the modern era with several significant upgrades. This reference introduced the "Super Case" design with thicker lugs and crown guards, along with the highly scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert, which maintains its vibrant blue color indefinitely.

Featuring the Maxi dial with larger hour markers and hands, the 116613 offers improved legibility while maintaining the elegant appeal of its predecessor. The updated Oyster bracelet with solid end links and the Glidelock extension system provides enhanced comfort and security, making it suitable for both formal occasions and underwater adventures.

Ref. 126613

The Rolex 126613 Blue represents the latest evolution in the two-tone blue Submariner lineage. This contemporary model features a slightly refined case design that maintains the iconic 40mm diameter while offering more elegant proportions through modified lugs and crown guards. The introduction of the new Caliber 3235 movement brings enhanced precision and power reserve.

Advanced manufacturing techniques result in a more refined finish throughout, from the ceramic bezel's precise markings to the bracelet's improved articulation. The sunburst blue dial appears more vivid than ever, while the Chromalight display provides exceptional legibility in dark conditions, embodying Rolex's commitment to continuous improvement.

Ref. 16803

The Rolex 16803 Blue represents an important transitional reference in the blue Submariner family. This model combined the reliability of the Caliber 3035 movement with the luxury of two-tone steel and yellow gold construction, featuring a distinctive blue dial and aluminum bezel insert that has developed a unique character over time.

This reference bridged the gap between vintage and modern Submariner aesthetics, offering a combination of classic charm and robust functionality. Its production during the 1980s coincided with a period of increasing luxury orientation for Rolex, making it a significant piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Ref. 16618

The Rolex 16618 Blue showcases the opulence of a full 18k yellow gold construction paired with a mesmerizing blue dial and bezel combination. This reference exemplifies luxury sports watch design, offering all the capabilities of a professional diving watch in a precious metal execution.

The contrast between the warm yellow gold case and bracelet with the cool blue dial creates a striking visual impact that has made this reference highly sought after. Its aluminum bezel insert has often aged beautifully, developing subtle variations that make each example unique while maintaining its functionality as a timing device.

Ref. 116618

The Rolex Submariner 116618 Blue brought the full yellow gold Submariner into the modern era with several significant upgrades. The introduction of the Cerachrom bezel ensures lasting beauty and functionality, while the Maxi dial provides enhanced legibility without sacrificing elegance.

This reference maintains the prestigious all-gold construction while incorporating modern innovations like the Glidelock clasp system and improved luminescent material. The combination of these updates with the traditional appeal of yellow gold creates a watch that's both a technical achievement and a luxury statement piece.

Ref. 116619

Among collectors, the Rolex Smurf (reference 116619) stands as one of the most distinctive iterations in the Submariner lineup. Crafted entirely in 18k white gold, this reference offers a more subtle approach to luxury while maintaining all the professional specifications that define the Submariner line.

The monochromatic aesthetic created by the white gold case and bracelet paired with an intense blue dial and bezel sets this watch apart from its peers. Its subtle yet unmistakable presence on the wrist, coupled with its relative rarity, has made it a prized possession among collectors who appreciate its sophisticated character and the technical mastery it represents.

Ref. 16808

The Rolex 16808 Blue represents one of the earlier luxury interpretations of the Submariner concept. This full yellow gold reference combined professional diving capabilities with precious metal construction, setting a precedent for future luxury sport watches.

This model's vintage charm comes from its period-correct features, including the aluminum bezel insert and nipple dial variation found on some examples. These characteristics, combined with its historical significance, make it particularly interesting to collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Rolex sports watches.

Ref. 1680

The Rolex Submariner 1680 Blue holds a special place in Submariner history as one of the earliest references to feature a date complication. When configured with a blue dial, this vintage reference offers a unique combination of historical significance and aesthetic appeal that continues to captivate collectors.

The 1680's blue dial variants are particularly prized for their rarity and the beautiful way they have aged over time. These watches represent an important milestone in the evolution of the Submariner line, combining professional functionality with an increasingly refined aesthetic approach.

Blue Rolex Submariner Specifications

The blue dial Submariner models exemplify Rolex's commitment to exceptional engineering and design. Each watch in this collection combines robust professional specifications with luxurious finishing, creating timepieces that excel both underwater and in formal settings. The blue variants particularly showcase Rolex's mastery of dial manufacturing, with their sunburst finish creating dynamic light effects that enhance their visual appeal.

Materials

The blue Submariner collection showcases Rolex's expertise in working with precious metals and advanced materials. The cases and bracelets are crafted from 904L stainless steel, 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, or a combination of steel and yellow gold known as Rolesor. These materials undergo extensive finishing processes, including careful polishing and brushing, to achieve their characteristic lustre. The two tone and blue dial combination, known affectionately among collectors as the "Rolex Bluesy," has become an icon in the luxury watch world.

The blue dial itself represents a technical achievement, featuring a sunburst finish that creates dynamic light effects while maintaining perfect legibility. The hands and hour markers are crafted from 18k gold to prevent tarnishing, while the Chromalight display provides exceptional luminescence in dark conditions. The crystal is made from virtually scratch-proof synthetic sapphire, with a Cyclops lens over the date window for enhanced readability.

Movement

Modern blue Submariners are powered by Rolex's in-house Caliber 3235, featuring the patented Chronergy escapement and blue Parachrom hairspring. This self-winding mechanical movement offers exceptional precision with a tolerance of -2/+2 seconds per day, surpassing official chronometer standards. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and incorporates various anti-magnetic components for improved reliability.

Earlier references utilized the proven Rolex Caliber 3135, which set industry standards for reliability and precision. These movements featured the Parachrom hairspring and offered a 48-hour power reserve. Vintage models were equipped with the Caliber 1575 or 3035, which, while less advanced technically, established Rolex's reputation for robust and reliable movements.

Bezel

The bezel construction varies across different generations of blue Submariners. Modern references feature a unidirectional rotatable bezel with a Cerachrom insert in matching blue ceramic, which is virtually scratchproof and fadeproof. The bezel features 60-minute graduations with numerals every 10 minutes, filled with platinum or gold depending on the watch's configuration.

Earlier models utilized aluminum bezel inserts, which, while less scratch-resistant, have developed beautiful patina over time that many collectors prize. The bezel mechanism maintains the same precise 120-click rotation system across all generations, ensuring accurate diving time measurements while preventing accidental adjustment in the counterclockwise direction.

Watch Bands

The Oyster bracelet remains a cornerstone of the Submariner's design, with several variations available depending on the model:

• Oyster Bracelet (White Gold): Crafted entirely from 18k white gold, featuring solid links and the Glidelock extension system for precise adjustment
• Oyster Bracelet (Two-Tone): Combines 904L steel outer links with 18k yellow gold center links, creating the distinctive Rolesor appearance
• Oyster Bracelet (Yellow Gold): Made completely from 18k yellow gold, offering maximum luxury while maintaining the tool watch functionality

Sizes

The blue Submariner maintains consistent dimensions across most modern references:

• Diameter: 40mm (41mm for the latest references)
• Thickness: 12.5mm (13mm for newer models)
• Lug to Lug: 47.6mm (48mm for current generation)
• Lug Width: 20mm consistently across all references

Water Resistance

True to its diving watch heritage, every blue Submariner offers water resistance to 300 meters (1000 feet). This is achieved through several technical features, including the Triplock crown system with triple waterproofness gaskets, the proprietary case construction, and the precisely engineered case back. This level of water resistance exceeds professional diving requirements while maintaining everyday practicality.

Rolex Submariner Blue Price

The Rolex Submariner Blue represents a significant investment in luxury horology, with prices varying based on specific references and market conditions. New models from authorized dealers start at approximately $14,300 for two-tone variants, while white gold models command prices approaching $40,000. However, due to extraordinary demand and limited availability, market prices often exceed these figures substantially.

In the pre-owned market, blue Submariner prices reflect the watch's desirability and specific characteristics. Current market prices typically fall into these ranges:

• $7,000 to $10,000: This range includes vintage references in good condition, particularly earlier two-tone models like the 16613. These pieces offer classic styling and proven reliability, making them attractive entry points into blue Submariner ownership.
• $10,000 to $15,000: Here you'll find later-production 16613 models and early 116613 references in excellent condition, often complete with original documentation. Some vintage full gold models in this range offer exceptional value for collectors.
• $15,000 to $20,000: This category encompasses modern two-tone references like the 116613 and early 126613 models. Watches in this range typically feature ceramic bezels and updated bracelets, representing the modern Submariner experience.
• Over $20,000: This premium category includes current-production models like the 126613 in unworn condition, as well as precious metal variants including the white gold "Smurf" and yellow gold references. These watches represent the pinnacle of luxury sports watch craftsmanship.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Submariner's features, history, and value proposition, we recommend reading our detailed Rolex Submariner review. This guide provides valuable insights for both seasoned collectors and those new to luxury timepieces.

Expert Opinion

"The blue Submariner collection represents the perfect marriage of Rolex's professional heritage and luxury craftsmanship. As someone who has handled thousands of luxury timepieces, I can attest that the execution of the blue dial and bezel combination is unmatched in the industry. Our clients consistently praise the versatility of these watches, particularly the two-tone 'Bluesy' models, which transition seamlessly from boardroom to boat deck. The enduring value and timeless appeal of these pieces make them essential additions to any serious watch collection."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches

Why Choose Us

When selecting a blue Submariner, choosing Bob's Watches ensures an experience backed by years of specialized expertise in luxury timepieces. Our commitment to transparency and authenticity sets us apart in the pre-owned watch market. Each blue Submariner we offer undergoes rigorous authentication and mechanical inspection, ensuring you receive a genuine Rolex in excellent condition.

Our team of experts thoroughly evaluates every watch, providing detailed condition reports and high-resolution photography that allows you to make an informed decision. Additionally, all our timepieces come with a satisfaction guarantee and certification from WatchCSA, giving you complete confidence in your purchase.

Sell Your Blue Rolex Submariner

Ready to part with your blue Submariner? Trust Bob's Watches to provide a seamless and transparent selling experience. Our expert team understands the unique value of each reference and variation, ensuring you receive a fair market price for your timepiece. Whether you're upgrading to a newer model or simply ready for a change, we make it easy to sell my Rolex with confidence.