100% Certified Authentic
Buying Guides

Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide

Shop Rolex Submariner Date
Paul Altieri

The Rolex Submariner is one of the most easily recognizable products from the luxury brand. It’s versatile, so you can wear it with almost everything. Not only that, but those who love looking at the intricacies of its manufacturing will enjoy the level of detail. It’s probably one of the most featured Rolex watches in the media due to its design and durability.

There are a few variations to the Submariner, but one of the most sought-after features a date display. It has a small square within the watch, indicating the current day, making it much more convenient. Because of its design and the relatively low supply, there is much demand for it. If you’re looking to buy one on your own, you need to know what to look for in order to get a good deal.

Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide Black 116610LN

Why Buy a Rolex Submariner with Date?

Rolex created the Submariner as their first diving watch, and it has been the most iconic of its kind. No other timepiece has graced the wrists of numerous celebrities and noteworthy figures the way this model has. Its design is so beloved that very little about it has changed from its original release in the 1950s. While it has improved materials, the overall design remains classic.

Even the original Ian Fleming novels depicted James Bond wearing a Rolex. It is a style that actors such as Sean Connery adopted during their Bond films. While vintage Rolex Submariners with dates may seem appealing, you may want to consider the newer models. This is because they have more features for longevity, such as:

  1. Scratch resistant ceramic
  2. Parachrom hairsprings

Despite that, you won’t go wrong with getting this piece because of its demand. It won’t lose its value, and many with dates even increase in value. Many other aspects of the diving watch makes it stand out. Here are some of the reasons why you should buy one:

  1. It uses Rolex Chromalight technology, which allows it to glow a luminescent blue in darker areas, a feature designed for diving.
  2. A beautiful color complementary mixture even to its unidirectional bezel.
  3. You can get a Rolex Submariner in several designs, from bezel to a green dial. There are also options for 18-carat gold, Oystersteel, and two-tone finishes.
  4. The Submariner with date is one of their best designs, enduring for decades without changing much from its original look.
Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide Stainless Steel

A Brief History of the Rolex Submariner

The first release of the Submariner was in 1953. Rolex introduced it as the first diving watch capable of working in up to 100 meters of pressure. With the quality of Rolex products, people soon discovered how reliable it is with use. Whether you’re traveling by land or going underwater, the watch remains functional and beautiful.

There were even tests conducted to check the durability of the Submariner. One of the most notable was attaching it to a submarine in an expedition towards the Marianas Trench. The goal was to see how the watch could sustain itself in deep depths. The Submariner shined, going at the expected 100 meters without showing any sign of wear.

Because of its popularity, Rolex would continue to release Submariner models over the years. Adding a date became a popular feature that some loved and remains niche.

Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide Kermit 16610LV

Buying a Rolex Submariner with Date

The Rolex Submariner features a sense of exclusivity. Many of those who get it come from places of prominence. As such, if one were to buy one, getting it brand new may be challenging due to the high price and demand.

However, there is no need to fret because the value and durability of the Submariner make it an ideal purchase even when pre-owned. Rolex also limits its supply, so getting one may require going through marketplaces such as ours. At Bob’s Watches, you can get one for a competitive price, giving you a chance to become the owner of one of the most prized possessions in the world today.

When buying a Rolex Submariner with date, it’s crucial to go through a reputable dealer. A company like Bob’s Watches has built its reputation from the ground up, supplying some of the best luxury watches available. You also have the assurance of getting the finer details of the Submariner correct, and models with accurate dates and hands.

You’ll also get complete information on the Submariners we have in stock. For example, some vintage watches opted for larger bezels, which alters their value. Since there are many models available, having a dealer who knows the dates and history to bring confidence to your purchase. It is what we offer and why you can trust us when buying a Rolex Submariner with a date.

Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide Hulk 116610LV

Rolex Submariner with Date Designs

You’ll find the date feature on the Rolex Submariner at three o’clock. As you’d expect, the price is higher than the standard version because of this added feature. You’ll also find that Rolex placed a magnifying lens to help see the numbers better. However, buyers don’t often notice the price difference between the two as they’re more looking for the features. Here are some of the most common designs:

  1. Stainless steel with black dial: The most common design takes from a standard stainless steel design with black color. It’s simple and versatile, displaying the beauty of Rolex in its most basic form. It’s ideal if you’re on a restricted budget or want something minimalist.
  2. Stainless steel with green dial: The green bezel Submariner first made waves in 2003 and is now a discontinued piece. In 2010, they released a green dial with a green bezel, nicknamed the Hulk, which was discontinued in 2020. To date, it is one of the most popular designs available and one that appeals to many collectors.
  3. Yellow gold: Yellow gold is one of the more unusual designs, but it also works well for the diving watch. Like white gold, yellow is highly resistant to corrosion, working with the diving watch well. They work well as dress watches and are available with blue or black dials.
  4. White gold with blue dial: One of the most striking among the Submariner models, it stands out compared to the stainless steel varieties. Apart from that, the gold itself makes the blue dial pop. White gold is highly resistant to corrosion, so it’s ideal for those who frequent beach areas.
  5. Two-tone Submariner: The two-tone design features a combination of stainless steel and yellow gold. It’s available in black and blue dials, making it a desirable stand-out piece. The black works well for more sporty attires, and the discontinued champagne diamond dial is for those who want extravagance.
Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide Two-Tone 126613LB

Highly Desired Models

There are several Submariners that many desire if you’re looking for a vintage or iconic piece. Here are a few to watch, as they’re considered favorites by many enthusiasts and collectors:

  1. Submariner 6204: The first Submariner model made its debut in the 1950s. Everything else was made possible because of the success of this piece. It has 100m water resistance, mixed-shape markers, and Mercedes hands (on later editions).
  2. Submariner 5513: The 5513 first made its debut in the early-1960s and is an eye-catching piece with its 48-hour power reserve. It also featured luminescent indexes, matched by a stainless steel case, and 17 jewels. It’s a highly coveted vintage Submariner.
  3. Submariner 116610LV: Also known as the Rolex Hulk, this is the green dial released in 2010 that succeeded the Kermit. Its rich green finish has 300m water resistance and a 48-hour power reserve. It’s an option for those who want an eye-catching Rolex.
  4. Submariner 6538: This Submariner rose to fame because of being paired with the iconic James Bond. It has appeared in numerous 007 films, with its iconic black rotating bezel and caliber 1030. It’s a design that pairs well with an action-packed lifestyle and is one of the most sought-after vintage pieces.
Rolex Submariner with Date Ultimate Buying Guide White Gold 126619

Final Thoughts

When looking for a Rolex Submariner, it’s best to narrow down your options beforehand. Research the models and find several that you’re likely to buy. That way, you won’t have to spend too much time or impulsively buy something you don’t want. Instead, you’ll get a piece with history, and features suited for you.

Paul Altieri
1 Comment
  1. Great article, thanks.
    What about the 116613N?
    Production only 2 years and the only sub with factory diamonds.