There’s something perversely decadent about a full gold dive watch. It’s like saying: “who cares if my arm gets chomped by a shark, I can afford a new watch anyway.”
Rolex introduced the first gold Submariner, the ref. 1680/8, in 1969 with either a black or blue dial and bezel combo. This ref. 16618 from 1999 features the beautiful royal blue dial and bezel combination. The dial is an uncommon ‘Swiss only’ variant. As Rolex shifted from using the radioactive Tritium luminous compound to the safer (non-radioactive) Luminova compound, it briefly marked these new dials with “SWISS” at the six o’clock position. After one to two years a new mark (“SWISS MADE”) was used, making these ‘Swiss only’ dials quite uncommon and thus collectible.
The 40 mm Oyster case is executed in 18K yellow gold and comes with a matching 18K yellow gold Oyster bracelet with polished center links and a sporty 18k yellow gold safety clasp. The sturdy and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures that the watch can safely be used while soaking your feet or taking a leisurely swim on a hot summer day.
The watch is in overall great condition with a thick case and sharp lines, some light scratches here and there, and some signs of polishing on the clasp. In other words: the perfect piece if you like wearing your watches rather than babying them.