Description

In 2008 Rolex reached a milestone. It turned 100 years since it started its amazing watchmaking activity. Even though the company did not want to publicly celebrate this event, the momentum has been marked by the launch of a very unique Submariner with reference number 116619. This white gold model with blue dial and blue bezel is a distinctive presence in the Submariner line, a design that has been highly appraised by fans due to its subtle elegance and vibrant color touch.

The anniversary Rolex Submariner model 116619 didn’t bring any technical innovations when compared to its most recent predecessor. What was entirely new to the collection was the decision of manufacturing the case and bracelet from 18 k white gold instead of stainless steel or yellow gold. The water resistance remained the same. The timepiece is waterproofed to depths of 300 meters. Its uniqueness consists in the fact that it is the most elegant and expensive alternative for the stainless steel version. For many wealthy and important personalities this is a plus, a change that allows them to enjoy wearing an utterly popular timepiece that only a few can afford.

The watch comes with the iconic Cerachrom bezel that was introduced by Rolex when it launched its 50^th Anniversary GMT. The blue color of the bezel is enhanced by the particular texture of the Cerachrom material. This very hard and durable material has been obtained through a very complex process and also decorated with 18 k white gold numbers. The result is a bezel that is unaffected by corrosion, water, light discoloration or scratches.

The 40 mm white gold case of the Submariner 116619 has the “squarish” look of the new Rolex case which is defined by larger crown guards and lugs. These size changes create a larger appearance and a bolder presence on the wrist compared to the classic 40 mm case. The surface of the case has been entirely brushed as to accentuate the casual and cool look of the watch. Furthermore, the easy grip winding crown and the solid case back have been manufactured from the same high quality 18 k white gold.

The blue dial is intriguing. The color is incredibly vivid and vibrant even though it does not have the iridescences of the classic blue dial Submariner. The larger markers and thick hands that are iconic for the Maxi Dial have been also added on the #116619. These are filled with white SuperLuminova that offers a better visibility under water or in the dark. For many years, Rolex’s patented SuperLuminova had a green glow, but the white gold Submariner has the newer blue glow. This innovation is unique within the watch world. At 3 o’clock there is also a date aperture that is quite easy to read due to its 2.5X Cyclops lens encapsulated by the scratch resistant sapphire crystal.

The bracelet and the clasp are exquisitely crafted from 18 k white gold. The three rows links of the Oyster bracelet have been been flawlessly polished in the center portion and brushed in the outer parts. Also, the links are solid whereas the clasp has been redesigned and qualitative enhanced with a closing system that prevents accidental opening and a Glidelock feature that allows the wearer to make it longer or shorter.

The interior of the new Submariner hides a magnificent 31 jewels Rolex calibre 3135 that is used for its Rolex watches since 1989. This high quality perpetual movement comes with the innovative Parachrom Bleu hairspring and a series of novelties that boost precision, reliability, resistance to a series of external factors and superior functionality.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner 116619 is a highly exclusive timepiece. This model is priced at around $28,000 and it stands for everything that is superior and exceptional about a watch. It is an extremely resistant diving watch that boosts a stunning design. The refined material, vibrant blue dial and spectacular workmanship confirm its status as the leader of luxury diving watches.

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