Rolex Submariner 116619LB 'Smurf' Review

christianch · 2016-03-06T14:48:21Z

Christianch reviews his Rolex Submariner 116619LB 'Smurf' for his 40th birthday. Discover the white gold Submariner's discrete luxury, wearability, and unique appeal.

christianch

WPS member · Rolex forum

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Christianch celebrates his 40th birthday with a comprehensive review of his new Rolex Submariner 116619LB, affectionately known as the 'Smurf.' His detailed impressions cover the watch's unique appeal, wearability, and why this white gold model stood out against other luxury contenders. This review offers a personal perspective on a highly sought-after reference, highlighting its blend of discrete luxury and iconic design.

For my 40th birthday -- that is today -- I have been looking for a new daily watch to mark this important anniversary. I have considered several watches from many brands that I have the luck to own:
Patek, Lange; JLC and even Panerai or Jaquet Droz. In the end I went for a Rolex Submariner 116619LB and for these that have seen my previous reviews it will mostly be a visual review.

I will also try to explain why I went for this watch vs many others and discuss what makes his watch special.

Rolex: how many times a watch enthusiast did dream or simply think of getting one whilst browsing the latest catalogue ? I am always fascinated by the section process before buying a watch.

Pro/Cons and all these analysis are very useful but -- as many of you would know -- in the end you decide with your heart more than your mind.

A few years back I was dreaming to getting this submariner but I waited for a better time and what better occasion than my 40th birthday?

I did consider the new yachtmaster in rose gold and the GMT pepsi white gold but in the end my heart was -- after a few years -- still in love with the "Smurfs" or as we say in German

"Schlumpf" blue of this rolex.

This is my very first submariner. To many getting a white gold vs the more "usable" steel one is very irrational. Yet there is something very special about the weight and feel of the

white gold version.

Here is the submariner not in the water but under the snow

Snow and water: the natural element of this watch

The watch weights around 200 gr. but is very well balanced and therefore very wearable and makes it for an excellent wearer. Despite having the dates in the mobile phone, computer

and virtually everywhere I go I still use and love the date on the watch.

The submariner works well on a suit too and for daily use in the office. The white gold/blue combination is very discrete. The Rolex Glidelock extension system allows you to set

the sizing of the bracelet with a lot of precision making it very comfortable as a daily wearer. The oyster bracelet needs no introduction as one of the most comfortable on the market.

Rolex Chromalight is simply fantastic and much more durable than luminova. A great innovation from Rolex!

In conclusion I think that the Rolex submariner in general is one of the most versatile watch and it comes to no surprise that is such a popular module.

The Rolex Submariner 116619LB adds discrete luxury to a very established model. This white gold / blue dial combination was launched in 2008 and is not as widely discussed

as other models. It is a relatively young rolex that is well worth the premium price of white gold.

Very understated yet distinctive and versatile it has all you might want wish for and more. There is more than one reason for Rolex to wear the crown!

About the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116619LB

The Rolex Submariner reference 116619LB, known colloquially as the "Smurf," is a notable iteration within the Submariner Date collection, distinguished by its use of 18k white gold for the case and bracelet. This reference represents a premium offering, positioning itself above the stainless steel and two-tone variants through its precious metal construction and unique color combination. It was introduced as part of the updated Submariner generation featuring ceramic bezels and improved bracelets.

This model features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from 18k white gold, paired with a matching Oyster bracelet. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its precision and durability, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Water resistance is rated to 300 meters, and the watch is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, protecting a blue dial.

The 116619LB appeals to collectors seeking a Submariner with a distinct aesthetic and material upgrade. Its blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel, combined with the white gold, create a monochromatic yet luxurious appearance. This reference stands out in the Submariner lineup for its precious metal execution, offering a less overt display of luxury compared to yellow gold models while still providing the inherent value and feel of a gold watch.

Specifications

Caliber: 3135

Case: White gold

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Blue

Water Resist.: 300m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The white gold Submariner 116619LB offers a distinct weight and feel compared to its steel counterparts, contributing to a sense of special, discrete luxury.
The 'Smurf' blue dial and white gold combination is noted for its versatility, working well with both casual and formal attire, including a business suit.
Rolex's Glidelock extension system on the Oyster bracelet is highlighted for its precision and comfort, making the watch an excellent daily wearer.
The Chromalight lume is praised for its fantastic and durable illumination, marking it as a significant Rolex innovation.
Some collectors prefer the substantial weight of gold watches, finding it adds to the overall satisfaction and luxury experience.
The Deepsea, while a technical marvel, is considered by some to be 'overkill' for practical diving, with standard Submariners being sufficient for most scuba depths.

The Discussion

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Mar 6, 2016

A very fine birthday treat! The smurf sub looks great on your wrist Good choice! Cheers Robin

rnaden

Mar 6, 2016

40 is a big milestone and this is a great choice for a milestone like that. Congratulations!

Arie - Mr Orange

Mar 6, 2016

;-) Happy birthday and congratulations with a very nice catch!

KMII

Mar 6, 2016

Both on the round birthday and on the watch you decided to treat yourself to! Now to many multiples of 40!

agyzace

Mar 6, 2016

Thanks for sharing your blue darling with us! Have a great one, Alex

dr.kol

Mar 7, 2016

A beautiful watch even as a diver I'm for diving watches made of the hardest material possible. But for an ageing gentleman this might be the right choice... (lol). Best, Kari

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About the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116619LB

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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