Rolex Submariner - Yellow Gold - 16618LB
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Submariner Date 18K
Condition: Excellent
Reference: 16618LB
Year: Circa 2005 (D-Serial)
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set (Inner & Outer Box, Warranty Certificate dated 2005, Green Superlative Chronometer Hangtag, Serial Hangtag, and Bezel Protector).
Notes: The 16618LB is the ultimate expression of the classic 5-digit Submariner. Produced until 2010, the D-serial is highly sought after by collectors as a "transitional" era piece. It retains the classic aluminum bezel and slimmer lug proportions of the neo-vintage era while benefiting from modern upgrades like the "no-holes" case and the solid-end-link (SEL) bracelet.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This D-serial example is in superb aesthetic and mechanical condition. The 18K yellow gold case remains thick and well-defined, showing only the lightest signs of careful wear.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The sunburst blue dial is the hallmark of the "Bluesy" 18K. It remains in pristine condition, showing a vibrant range of navy to royal blue. The 18K yellow gold hands and markers are flawless. The sapphire crystal is clear and free of chips.
Case & Bezel: The 40mm solid gold case is in excellent shape. The blue aluminum bezel insert is crisp, with no significant scratches or "ghosting." The bezel teeth are sharp, and the unidirectional rotation is precise.
Strap/Bracelet & Clasp: The 18K yellow gold Oyster bracelet (Ref. 93258) shows minimal stretch. The polished center links exhibit only minor surface swirling, and the Oysterlock safety clasp—featuring the crown logo in high relief—is secure and tight.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 16618LB
Case Size: 40mm
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold
Dial: Sunburst Blue with 18K Yellow Gold Luminous Markers
Movement: Calibre 3135 (Automatic, Date)
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
Water Resistance: 300m (1,000 feet)
Notable Details: D-serial (c. 2005), "No-Holes" case, Solid End Links (SEL), aluminum bezel insert, and Triplock triple waterproofness system.
Why the D-Serial 16618LB is a Collector's Choice
The D-serial 16618LB occupies a "sweet spot" in Rolex history. For many purists, the 5-digit Submariner is the perfect size—offering a more elegant, tapered silhouette compared to the "Super Case" that followed in 2010. Because this is a later 5-digit production, it features the Calibre 3135, a legendary movement known as the backbone of Rolex for over 30 years.
Finding a complete set like this—including the serial hangtag and bezel protector—is increasingly difficult. These "ephemera" pieces are usually the first things lost by original owners, and their presence indicates a watch that has been treated as a collector's item since day one. This 16618LB isn't just a piece of gold jewelry; it is a meticulously preserved tool watch that captures the end of an era for the classic Rolex aesthetic.
Why Buy from Road & Wrist
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—from the presence of the original bezel protector to the tightness of the gold bracelet—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We are available for servicing and can provide advice on maintaining the luster of 18K yellow gold.
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Submariner Date 18K
Condition: Excellent
Reference: 16618LB
Year: Circa 2005 (D-Serial)
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set (Inner & Outer Box, Warranty Certificate dated 2005, Green Superlative Chronometer Hangtag, Serial Hangtag, and Bezel Protector).
Notes: The 16618LB is the ultimate expression of the classic 5-digit Submariner. Produced until 2010, the D-serial is highly sought after by collectors as a "transitional" era piece. It retains the classic aluminum bezel and slimmer lug proportions of the neo-vintage era while benefiting from modern upgrades like the "no-holes" case and the solid-end-link (SEL) bracelet.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This D-serial example is in superb aesthetic and mechanical condition. The 18K yellow gold case remains thick and well-defined, showing only the lightest signs of careful wear.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The sunburst blue dial is the hallmark of the "Bluesy" 18K. It remains in pristine condition, showing a vibrant range of navy to royal blue. The 18K yellow gold hands and markers are flawless. The sapphire crystal is clear and free of chips.
Case & Bezel: The 40mm solid gold case is in excellent shape. The blue aluminum bezel insert is crisp, with no significant scratches or "ghosting." The bezel teeth are sharp, and the unidirectional rotation is precise.
Strap/Bracelet & Clasp: The 18K yellow gold Oyster bracelet (Ref. 93258) shows minimal stretch. The polished center links exhibit only minor surface swirling, and the Oysterlock safety clasp—featuring the crown logo in high relief—is secure and tight.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 16618LB
Case Size: 40mm
Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold
Dial: Sunburst Blue with 18K Yellow Gold Luminous Markers
Movement: Calibre 3135 (Automatic, Date)
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
Water Resistance: 300m (1,000 feet)
Notable Details: D-serial (c. 2005), "No-Holes" case, Solid End Links (SEL), aluminum bezel insert, and Triplock triple waterproofness system.
Why the D-Serial 16618LB is a Collector's Choice
The D-serial 16618LB occupies a "sweet spot" in Rolex history. For many purists, the 5-digit Submariner is the perfect size—offering a more elegant, tapered silhouette compared to the "Super Case" that followed in 2010. Because this is a later 5-digit production, it features the Calibre 3135, a legendary movement known as the backbone of Rolex for over 30 years.
Finding a complete set like this—including the serial hangtag and bezel protector—is increasingly difficult. These "ephemera" pieces are usually the first things lost by original owners, and their presence indicates a watch that has been treated as a collector's item since day one. This 16618LB isn't just a piece of gold jewelry; it is a meticulously preserved tool watch that captures the end of an era for the classic Rolex aesthetic.
Why Buy from Road & Wrist
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—from the presence of the original bezel protector to the tightness of the gold bracelet—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We are available for servicing and can provide advice on maintaining the luster of 18K yellow gold.