Up For Bidding: 
The story of the Rolex Submariner is an illustrious one, making history in 1953 as the world’s first dive watch capable of being water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). Developed as a diver’s tool, it was equipped with a rotating 60-minute bezel to safely time decompression stops and luminescent details for visibility in the ocean’s vast darkness. Over the years, the Submariner has undergone countless upgrades, in addition to taking on a number of differing looks using a range of materials, colors, and design details. For more than half a century, the Rolex Submariner has remained the gold standard in luxury diving watches. That brings us to the ref. 16618 in solid 18k yellow gold. Replacing the ref. 16808, the subject of our review was the first all-gold Submariner to run on the caliber 3135 movement. While fairly similar in design as the caliber 3035, the cal. 3135 is an improved version with 31 jewels (up from 27), a longer 50-hour power reserve (up from 42 hours), and a full balance bridge with a larger balance wheel. Additionally, Rolex also updated the cal. 3135 in 2000 to feature its proprietary blue Parachrom hairspring. This particular example is in honest pre-owned condition and the dial/bezel have aged to a rich purple patina. The Rolex is accompanied by the original Rolex coffin box. Bid with confidence!

Item Details:
  • Case Metal/material: 18k Gold
  • Movement: Mechanical (Automatic)
  • Model/style Number: Submariner
  • Serial Number: E821xxx
  • Reference Number: 16618
  • Case Size (mm): 40mm
  • Lug Width (mm): 20mm
  • Dial Color: Blue
  • Band Materials: Yellow Gold
  • Complications: Date
  • Wrist Size: 7"
  • Features: 12-Hour Dial,Chronometer,Date Indicator,Sapphire Crystal,Screwdown Crown,Seconds Hand,Swiss Made
  • Original Box And/or Papers: None
  • Weight: 168.3g
  • Condition Description: This watch is in fine condition. It is currently running. The quickset function has been tested and is working properly. The date switches over accurately. The bezel rotates properly. The bezel is missing a lume pip. The bezel also has scratches. The crown has a chip. The crystal and dial remain in excellent condition with natural fading/patina. The case, clasp and bracelet contain scratches and scuffs consistent with regular wear. There is wear to the clasp hinge. As a vintage watch with an unknown service history, this watch will likely require a service from your local watchmaker for long-term reliable timekeeping. See photos!


Condition Guide:
  • Pristine - Items in "like new" condition.  Shows no signs of wear.  Worn very little, if at all.
  • Very Fine -  Items that have minimal wear.  Worn only a few times.  In "almost new" condition.
  • Fine - Items show signs of wear.  Light surface scratches and possibly a few small dents.  Average condition considering the age of the item.
  • Good -  Items that have been worn regularly and have noticeable wear.  Scratches and dents are more visible.
  • Fair - Items show signs of major wear or damage.  Usually these items will need some sort of repair or cleaning.

Please review the photos to determine the condition of this item.


Shipping:

We offer combined shipping when applicable and only for orders shipped within the USA. We cannot combine shipping for orders shipped outside of the USA. We will send an updated invoice to reflect combined shipping costs within 1-2 from the auction end date. Items are shipped within 1-2 business days of receiving payment. Most shipments within the US are shipped USPS Priority Mail. High value items ($1500 and up) are shipped via FedEx or UPS.

Any international duties and taxes are the sole responsibility of the buyer and all customs policies are strictly followed. Customs documents will not be modified as we ensure our packages for the full sales amount.

Hours:

Our office is open Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Central Standard Time. We are closed for standard US holidays. Questions received outside of these business hours may not receive a response before the close of an auction.

Returns:

Returns are accepted within 30 days of the auction end date. All returns must be processed through eBay and refunds will be issued following the eBay return process.

Sales Tax:

Standard Missouri sales tax will be charged on all orders shipped within the state of Missouri.