123 MATCHES FOUND
Think of the yellow gold Rolex Submariner as the upscale sibling to the iconic steel model. Older versions came with aluminum bezel inserts, but modern 18k gold references use Rolex’s scratchproof Cerachrom ceramic bezels instead. Today, you can find them in either a deep black or a vibrant blue layout. Even though it is made of solid gold, it is still a true dive watch at its core. It features 300 meters of water resistance, a unidirectional bezel for tracking dive times, a robust Oyster bracelet, highly legible dial markers, and the classic Cyclops date window.
If you are shopping for a gold diver, you have some great options to compare. Yellow gold Submariners differ quite a bit by dial color, bezel material, case size, and age. Over the years, Rolex has steadily modernized the line, moving from aluminum parts to high-tech ceramic and tweaking the case proportions. Instead of getting bogged down in individual reference numbers, most buyers focus on a few main styling choices:
The Rolex Submariner Yellow Gold price can vary depending on the age of the watch, the size of the case and the type of bezel. Entry level options for these all-gold sports watches start around $23,000 to $30,000. This tier is primarily populated by neo-vintage aluminum bezel references, specifically the 16618LN and 16618LB.
Values climb substantially for modern ceramic iterations. Discontinued 40mm Maxi case models occupy the $32,000 to $38,000 tier. Current production 41mm references—the 126618LN and blue dial 126618LB—retail for $41,500 and trade consistently between $36,000 and $42,000 on the secondary market. At the top of the collection sit highly collectible vintage examples. While transitional 16808 models fetch up to $35,000, the original reference 1680/8 establishes the peak pricing tier. Featuring an acrylic crystal and a distinct nipple dial, this specific variant changes hands firmly in the $35,000 to $55,000 range.
| Model / Ref | Era | Popular Name | Metal | Bezel/Dial | Retail Price in USD | Pre-Owned Price (Approx) in USD - With Box and Papers | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 126618LB | Current | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Blue Cerachrom | 41500 | $37,000 - $42,000 | 41mm case, updated proportions, Caliber 3235 |
| 126618LN | Current | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Black Cerachrom | 41500 | $36,000 - $40,000 | 41mm case, black dial matching ceramic bezel |
| 116618LB | Discontinued | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Blue Cerachrom | Discontinued | $33,000 - $38,000 | 40mm Maxi case, early versions had flat blue dial |
| 116618LN | Discontinued | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Black Cerachrom | Discontinued | $32,000 - $36,000 | 40mm Maxi case with black ceramic bezel |
| 16618LB | Neo-vintage | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Blue Aluminum | Discontinued | $24,000 - $30,000 | Classic 40mm proportions, aluminum bezel insert |
| 16618LN | Neo-vintage | - | 18k Yellow Gold | Black Aluminum | Discontinued | $23,000 - $28,000 | Long-running production, reliable caliber 3135 |
| 16808 | Transitional | Nipple Dial | 18k Yellow Gold | Black/Blue Alum. | Discontinued | $25,000 - $35,000 | First gold Sub to feature sapphire crystal |
| 1680/8 | Vintage | Nipple Dial | 18k Yellow Gold | Black/Blue Alum. | Discontinued | $35,000 - $55,000 | Very first solid gold Submariner, acrylic crystal |
Like most Rolex sports models, a yellow gold Submariner tends to hold its value incredibly well. Things like overall condition, having the original box and papers, and the specific reference number will drive the final market price. Not every single model is a guaranteed investment, but discontinued aluminum references, modern ceramic models, and the classic blue dials usually enjoy the strongest secondary market demand.
“The yellow gold Submariner is the definitive heavyweight of the Rolex sports catalog. It completely changes the character of a highly capable tool watch into an undeniable luxury statement. Whether you opt for the classic black dial or the vibrant blue sunburst, an 18k gold Submariner simply commands respect.”
— Eugene Tutunikov, CEO
Expect to pay anywhere from $28,000 to $50,000 for a pre-owned yellow gold Submariner. Older aluminum models sit at the lower end of that range, while current 41mm ceramic models with their box and papers command top-dollar prices.
Generally, yes. They hold their value incredibly well. Discontinued vintage models, blue dial configurations, and pieces that still have their original box and papers tend to perform the best over time. Focus on condition and buying a complete set if you want the safest bet.
The blue dial and blue bezel version is by far the most popular. Available in both aluminium bezel and ceramic bezel versions, the vibrant combination of blue and 18k yellow gold makes for the ultimate statement dive watch.
Get access to the newest arrivals, latest deals, exclusive news, and event invites - right in your inbox, and before everyone else!