A Guide To Popular
Rolex Submariner
Nicknames
Many adjectives have been used to describe the world-famous Rolex Submariner watch. It has been called the most iconic, influential, recognisable and emulated sports watch of all time - not to mention the most important too.
When the Rolex Submariner was first unveiled at the prestigious 1954 Watch Show in Basel, it set new standards with its unparalleled water resistance of up to 100 metres. It is now forever immortalised as arguably the best sports watch ever created.
How the Rolex Submariner Originated
The brand's first fully-fledged dive watch, the Rolex Submariner, was the brainchild of the company's public relations director, René-Paul Jeanneret, a keen diver himself. He was responsible for developing the "tool watch" concept: the idea that a watch could do much more than just display the time.
Jacques Cousteau, the famous French naval officer, conservationist and diver, was Jeanneret's personal friend. His input was vital in deciding what was required to make the perfect diving watch.
The specially designed Rolex diving watch was tested at length by the Institute for Deep Sea Research in 1953. It was monitored at various depths, from 12 to 60 metres, over five months, when 132 successful dives were recorded.
Concluding the tests, the watch was lowered to 120 metres below the surface for more than an hour. No signs of leakage were detected, even 20 metres past its rated resistance of 100 metres. It went on sale the following year, capturing the imagination of a large and appreciative audience almost immediately.
Refining the Rolex Submariner Concept
The Rolex Submariner has evolved into much more than a diving implement, thanks to its elegant styling, its sophisticated minimalism matching everything from jeans and t-shirts to tailored tuxedos.
The greatest advertisement for any watch was when secret agent James Bond 007 wore a Submariner in eight of his film outings, with everything from a wetsuit to a dinner jacket. The iconic Sean Connery wore a Submariner reference 6538 when he played 007. It was reportedly producer Albert "Cubby" Broccoli's own watch.
The Submariner became synonymous with the suave super spy, appearing in movies including Goldfinger, From Russia With Love and Thunderball.
With its place in history secured, the model has continued to evolve since its inception in 1953 and remains one of the world's most iconic watches today. Read on to find out more about some of the most popular Rolex Submariner models and the nicknames they are known by.
Rolex Submariner Date
The first Submariner to feature a date complication was released by Rolex in 1969 with reference 1680, and the Submariner date has been perhaps the most popular model from the brand ever since.
The 16800 followed in the 1970s and introduced a number of features still found on modern Subs such as a sapphire crystal, 300m water resistance (up from 200m) and unidirectional bezel.
In 2010 the Rolex Submariner Date reference 116610 LN launched with a case size of 40 mm. Powered by the 3135 movement with Parachrom hairspring, it was the model that first added the ceramic Cerachrom bezel inserts to the stainless steel version of the Submariner. This represented the most significant update to the collection for several decades and offered an altogether more contemporary design and revised bracelet with Glidelock extension, making the Rolex Submariner 116610 LN one of the most sought-after luxury watches in the world.
The current Submariner Date reference 126610 LN has a 41mm case and features a uni-directional, rotatable, scratch-resistant, ceramic Cerachrom insert in the bezel and platinum-coated numerals and graduations. Launched in 2020, the calibre 3235 model is waterproof to 300 metres and boasts an Oyster bracelet and black dial with Chromalight hour markers and hands. While its diameter increased, the case and in particular the lug design was slimmed down compared to the previous model for a classic looking and highly wearable piece.
Rolex Submariner No Date
When the Submariner originally launched in 1953 with reference 6204, it did not feature a date, so a no date model is considered by some as the purest and most original version of the watch. Its simple design doesn't include the date window and Cyclops which are synonymous with the “date” models in the Submariner range.
The current generation Rolex Submariner reference 124060 was introduced at the end of 2020, turning a few heads as part of a new generation of Submariners, measuring 41 mm. Featuring the new calibre 3230, it has a black bezel and dial, Oyster bracelet and steel case and is water-resistant to 300 metres.
The Rolex Submariner No Date reference 114060, launched in 2012, is another popular model of the most basic Submariner on the market. Now discontinued, this was the last no-date Sub to be manufactured at 40mm, and is becoming increasingly sought after by collectors.
The model is elegant and understated, featuring a 904L stainless steel body, a 904L stainless steel Oyster bracelet and the in-house Rolex 3130 movement. It looks good with everything from beachwear to a formal suit. This beautiful watch boasts the iconic black dial that makes it simply a class act.
Fans of the no date Sub appreciate its simplicity and symmetry, forgoing the date complication for arguably a more balanced dial layout with a baton marker at the three o’clock position to match the one at nine o’clock, rather than the date display.
Rolex Submariner Hulk
The Submariner Hulk date model ref 116610 LV is something of a rarity, as it is now discontinued. Submariner Hulks are always highly sought after, and the model is admired by new owners and experienced collectors alike. It features a 40 mm case, steel Oyster bracelet and of course, the distinctive green bezel and green dial from which its name derives.
The Hulk was also manufactured using the same super case design as the 116610 LN, which uses lugs that are slightly bulkier than previous models. Combined with the all green design, this bulkier shape means that the Hulk nickname is certainly a good match for the watch.
The average price was around £19,000 for the Submariner Hulk in 2022, and it has been labelled one of the best watches to buy as an investment as its price has risen rapidly from the £10,900 average in the first quarter of 2020. The price of this great looking and highly collectable piece rocketed after it was discontinued in September 2020.
Rolex Submariner Kermit
The Rolex Submariner 16610 LV - known as the Kermit due to its green bezel - is another highly sought after model as a result of its rarity. Launched in 2003 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner range, it was discontinued seven years later.
Unlike the Hulk, the Kermit features a black dial in combination with a beautiful green bezel that offers a unique lustre being made in aluminium. The bezel is quite striking, as it can often appear brighter and warmer than Cerachrom bezels of later models, and paired with the black dial presents as a unique and superb looking watch.
The watch marked the first time green was used within the Submariner range; at the time it divided opinions, however Rolex has continued to use green since and its a shade that has become incredibly popular with collectors.
The Kermit also introduced the maxi dial with slightly larger hour markers to the Submariner lineup for improved legibility. Housed in a 40mm case, it is powered by the reliable calibre 3135 with a 48 hour power reserve, and comes with an Oyster bracelet that benefits from an Oysterlock clasp.
There are actually a couple of variations of the Kermit to be aware of; earlier models are known as the Kermit “Flat 4” due to the font used for the number 4 on the dial, whereas later models feature a more angular font for the number 4.
Rolex Submariner Starbucks
Launched in 2020, the Rolex Submariner Starbucks 126610 LV is often considered as the spiritual successor to the Kermit. It uses the same combination of a black dial with a green bezel insert, which resembles the colours used by the famous coffee brand, hence the nickname.
However, the shade of green on the Starbucks Submariner is visibly darker than the green used on the Kermit model for a slightly more subtle look. As with all modern Submariners, the bezel insert of the Starbucks is made from Cerachrom which offers enhanced scratch, fade and stain resistance over aluminium. The 126610 LV also uses the slightly larger 41 mm case that typifies the current Submariner range.
Housed in an Oystersteel case and complete with the latest Oyster bracelet, the Submariner Starbucks is powered by calibre 3235 which is highly reliable, efficient and accurate.
While the Starbucks is a very popular watch, as it is a recent model you can often pick up a great example at a slightly cheaper price than the discontinued Kermit. This makes the Submariner Starbucks a great choice either for daily wear or as an investment.
Rolex Submariner Smurf
The Rolex Submariner 116619 LB is better known as the Smurf. In the 21st century, the use of colour on Rolex Submariner watches has become more common, and the striking blue-on-blue colour scheme of the Ref 116619 LB has led to its Smurf nickname, as it boasts a flat blue dial, with a matching blue Cerachrom bezel.
Now discontinued, the Submariner Smurf will have been a great investment for original owners as demand for this sometimes hard to find model has been increasing over recent years.
Made from white gold, the Smurf is a unique and luxurious interpretation of the submariner concept. Incidentally, this isn't just any white gold - it is 18KT Rolex white gold forged at the company's own exclusive foundry with only the purest base metals.
Housed in a 40mm case and powered by the reliable calibre 3135, the Smurf comes with an 18KT white gold Oyster bracelet featuring polished centre links, and features a Glidelock clasp for added comfort.
Rolex Submariner Cookie Monster
For Submariner fans who want the latest technology with a splash of blue, the 126619 LB Cookie Monster offers a blue Cerachrom bezel that contrasts beautifully with its black dial. The combination of blue on black has earned the model the nickname Cookie Monster after the much loved character from The Muppets.
Like the Smurf, the Submariner Cookie Monster is made in exceptional quality Rolex 18KT white gold. However, the 126619 LB uses the latest 41mm Submariner case design and at its heart beats the calibre 3235. This impressive movement delivers around 70 hours of power reserve, and features a blue Parachrom hairspring for enhanced magnetic resistance along with Paraflex shock absorbers.
With a highly legible black dial and ceramic bezel that’s just the right shade of blue, the Submariner Cookie Monster looks stunning, while at the same time being subtle enough for everyday wear.
As with other coloured Submariners, the Smurf is a highly sought after watch and demand is only expected to increase. As such, the Submariner Smurf would make a great investment piece, as well as a watch to be enjoyed in almost any situation.
Rolex Submariner Bluesy
The Rolex Submariner 16613 is nicknamed the Bluesy. It first arrived in 1988 and was discontinued in 2009. With a case size of 40 mm, this Rolex Submariner date watch is fashioned from 904L stainless steel and 18k yellow gold with a calibre 3135 movement.
The classic “Bluesy” takes its name from the distinctive blue dial and bezel. This is paired with a bi-metal steel and gold case and bracelet, for a distinctive look that is instantly recognisable to Rolex fans.
As well as the blue version, reference 16613 also offers a black dial and bezel variation with luminous hour markers and an Oyster bracelet. The bezel is uni-directional with an aluminium insert and a 60-minute scale.
The Bluesy was replaced by the reference 116613 LB in 2009, but its regular solid blue dial wasn't as popular with Submariner fans as the earlier sunburst style, which was then reinstated.
The current Rolex Submariner 126613 LB is a revised version, but with the emphasis on evolution, rather than revolution. It offers the classic Bluesy look with modern 3235 movement offering a 70 hours power reserve, 41mm case diameter, Cerachrom bezel and Glidelock extension on the Oystersteel and Yellow Rolesor combination bracelet.
Rolex Submariner Bumble Bee
The Rolex Submariner Date ref 116613 LN is the brother of the 116613 LB; all the features, the movements and the case are the same.
However, the newer 116613 LN - nicknamed the Submariner Bumble Bee - is black, whereas the LB model features a blue dial and bezel. Manufactured from 2009 to 2020, it gets its nickname from its contrasting colours of a black dial with 18K yellow gold lettering around the bezel.
Like the Bluesey, the Bumble Bee Submariner also offers a bimetal steel and gold case and bracelet. The crown and bezel are made from Rolex’s proprietary yellow Rolesor gold, as are the centre links on the Oyster bracelet, with the outer links in steel.
In 2020 Rolex launched an updated generation of the Bumble Bee, reference 126613LN. This version features the latest 41mm Submariner case and impressive calibre 3235, combined with the classic two tone Oystersteel and yellow gold, and black Cerachrom bezel.
The Rolesor design provides the timepiece with a versatile look whether for day or evening wear, aside from its 300-metre water resistance and date complication which mean it’s also a practical watch as well.
Rolex Submariner 14060
The Rolex Submariner no date reference 14060 model, produced between 1990 and 2010, features a unidirectional bezel with a black aluminium insert and 60-minute scale, an Oyster bracelet and a Rolex calibre 3000 movement.
The updated version, the Submariner 14060M, has a calibre 3130 movement, with the "M" standing for "modified". It offers elements missing from the previous design, such as a larger balance wheel and improved performance metrics.
Often a more attainable model of the famous Rolex dive watch than some of the rarer references, the 14060 is nevertheless a classic Sub that bridges the gap between vintage and contemporary features, materials and design.
How To Buy A Rolex Submariner
As one of the most iconic watches in the world, and one of the most popular from Rolex, the Submariner continues to be highly sought after with new fans and seasoned collectors alike.
When buying a Sub, the first thing to do is to decide on the specific reference you are interested in. Perhaps you like the clean and classic look of a pre ceramic no date model, or maybe you want to add a pop of colour or a splash of gold.
Whichever model you’re looking for, there are a few important watch buying guidelines you should follow. It’s essential to ensure that when purchasing a pre-owned Rolex Sub you work with a reputable and experienced specialist. As such a popular watch, the Sub is also unfortunately one of the most counterfeited on the planet, so it is vital that you work with a supplier who only offers genuine Rolex pieces.
When you want to invest in a Rolex Submariner, look no further than The Swiss Watch Company. We pride ourselves on the high quality of the watches we sell and ensure each watch is authentic and in the best condition. We’ve been looking after our clients for over 20 years and are one of the UK’s leading pre-owned Rolex specialists.
The age, condition, variation and completeness of boxes and paperwork can all impact prices quite significantly, and at the Swiss Watch Company we’re fully transparent about every watch we sell. All our Rolex watches are guaranteed to be authentic and come with a 12-month warranty, as well as the remainder of the original Rolex warranty for newer pieces.
We also buy Rolex watches. So if you want to sell your Rolex Submariner we make the process quick, simple and guarantee to offer a fair price for your watch.
Sell My Rolex