The Rolex Submariner Date is one of the most recognizable and desirable luxury dive watches in the world. It combines the professional diving features of the original Submariner with an instantaneous date display and Rolex’s signature Cyclops magnifying lens.
Originally created for underwater exploration, the Submariner Date has become a versatile luxury sports watch worn by divers, travelers, collectors, and first-time Rolex buyers. Its clean dial, rotating dive bezel, durable Oyster bracelet, and timeless design make it suitable for daily wear both in and out of the water.
Every Rolex watch is carefully inspected and authenticated by our experienced professionals. All Rolex watches from ECI Jewelers include the original Rolex box. Original Rolex papers are included when the watch is listed as a complete set.
We also offer free insured shipping, financing options, trade-ins, and personalized service from our NYC Diamond District showroom.
Why the Rolex Submariner Date Is So Popular
The Rolex Submariner Date is popular because it combines professional dive-watch performance with everyday practicality and strong luxury appeal.
Buyers and collectors appreciate the Submariner Date for its:
Instantaneous date display
Cyclops lens over the date
Unidirectional dive bezel
300 meters of water resistance
Automatic Rolex movement
Approximately 70-hour power reserve on current models
Oyster bracelet with Glidelock adjustment
Highly legible Chromalight display
Strong resale demand
Stainless steel, two-tone, and full-gold options
Black, blue, and green bezel configurations
Timeless design and worldwide recognition
The Submariner Date is an excellent choice for buyers who want one Rolex that can be worn daily, while traveling, at work, or during recreational water activities.
Rolex Submariner Date History
Rolex introduced the original Submariner in 1953 as a professional dive watch. The first Submariner Date followed in 1969, adding a practical date display to the model’s established underwater capabilities.
Early Submariner Date references used acrylic crystals and aluminum bezel inserts. Later generations introduced sapphire crystals, improved movements, stronger bracelets, and increased water resistance.
Modern Submariner Date watches use scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezel inserts, advanced Rolex movements, Chromalight luminescence, and Oyster bracelets with Glidelock adjustment.
The collection has also produced some of the most recognizable Rolex nicknames, including Kermit, Hulk, Starbucks, and Bluesy.
Current Rolex Submariner Date References
The current Submariner Date collection uses a 41 mm Oyster case and Rolex calibre 3235.
Rolex Submariner Date 126610LN
The Rolex 126610LN is the current Oystersteel Submariner Date with a black dial and black Cerachrom bezel.
It is one of the most versatile Rolex sports watches and a popular choice for first-time buyers and experienced collectors.
Key features include:
41 mm Oystersteel case
Black dial
Black Cerachrom bezel
Calibre 3235
Oyster bracelet
300 meters of water resistance
Approximately 70-hour power reserve
Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV
The Rolex 126610LV has a black dial and green Cerachrom bezel. Collectors commonly call it the Starbucks, although some also use Kermit-related nicknames.
It replaced the discontinued green-dial Hulk in 2020 and introduced the updated 41 mm case and calibre 3235.
Key features include:
41 mm Oystersteel case
Black dial
Green Cerachrom bezel
Calibre 3235
Oyster bracelet
Distinctive collector appeal
Rolex Submariner Date 126613LN
The Rolex 126613LN is a two-tone Yellow Rolesor Submariner Date combining Oystersteel and 18K yellow gold.
It features a black dial and black ceramic bezel, giving it a more understated appearance than the blue two-tone model.
Rolex Submariner Date 126613LB “Bluesy”
The Rolex 126613LB combines Oystersteel and 18K yellow gold with a royal blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.
Known as the Bluesy, it is one of the most recognizable two-tone Rolex watches.
Rolex Submariner Date 126618LN
The Rolex 126618LN is a full 18K yellow gold Submariner Date with a black dial and black Cerachrom bezel.
It combines professional dive-watch construction with the weight and presence of a full-gold Rolex.
Rolex Submariner Date 126618LB
The Rolex 126618LB is a full 18K yellow gold Submariner Date with a blue dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.
It offers one of the boldest and most luxurious configurations in the Submariner collection.
Rolex Submariner Date 126619LB
The Rolex 126619LB is an 18K white gold Submariner Date with a black dial and blue Cerachrom bezel.
Collectors sometimes call this reference the Cookie Monster. Its white gold construction gives it a more understated appearance than yellow gold while maintaining substantial weight and luxury.
Popular Discontinued Submariner Date References
Discontinued Submariner Date references remain highly desirable because they offer different case proportions, movements, bezel materials, dials, and collector histories.
Rolex Submariner Date 116610LN
The 116610LN is the previous-generation Oystersteel Submariner Date with a black dial and black ceramic bezel.
It has a 40 mm super case, calibre 3135, and approximately 48 hours of power reserve.
Rolex Submariner Date 116610LV “Hulk”
The 116610LV Hulk features a green sunburst dial and green ceramic bezel.
Produced from 2010 through 2020, it remains one of the most collectible modern discontinued Submariners.
Rolex Submariner Date 16610
The 16610 is a classic Oystersteel Submariner Date with a black dial and aluminum bezel insert.
Its slimmer case and older bracelet construction give it a lighter, more traditional fit than modern ceramic models.
Rolex Submariner Date 16610LV “Kermit”
The 16610LV Kermit was introduced to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary.
It combines a black dial with a green aluminum bezel and is one of the most recognized neo-vintage Rolex references.
Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB
The 116613LB is the previous-generation two-tone Bluesy with a blue dial, blue ceramic bezel, and 40 mm case.
Rolex Submariner Date 16613
The 16613 is an earlier two-tone Submariner Date commonly available with blue or black dial and bezel configurations.
Rolex Submariner Date 1680
The reference 1680 was the first Rolex Submariner to include a date display.
Early examples with red Submariner text are known as Red Submariners and are especially collectible.
Rolex Submariner Date Specifications
Specifications vary by reference and production year. Current Submariner Date models share the following primary features:
Model: Rolex Submariner Date Case Size: 41 mm Case: Rolex Oyster case Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Date Display: Instantaneous date with rapid setting Magnification: Cyclops lens over the date Bezel: Unidirectional 60-minute graduated bezel Bezel Insert: Cerachrom ceramic Water Resistance: 300 meters / 1,000 feet Crown: Triplock screw-down crown Movement: Rolex calibre 3235 Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours Precision: Rolex Superlative Chronometer Bracelet: Oyster bracelet Clasp: Oysterlock safety clasp Adjustment: Rolex Glidelock extension system
Rolex Calibre 3235
Current Rolex Submariner Date models use calibre 3235, a self-winding mechanical movement developed and manufactured by Rolex.
Features include:
Automatic self-winding
Approximately 70-hour power reserve
Instantaneous date
Rapid date setting
Stop-seconds for precise time setting
Chronergy escapement
Blue Parachrom hairspring
Paraflex shock absorbers
Rolex Superlative Chronometer precision
Previous-generation Submariner Date references commonly used calibre 3135, which remains highly respected for durability and serviceability.
Unidirectional Cerachrom Bezel
The Submariner Date uses a unidirectional rotating bezel with a 60-minute scale. Divers can use it to monitor elapsed time underwater.
The bezel rotates in only one direction as a safety feature. If it is moved accidentally, it can only indicate that more time has passed, helping reduce the risk of underestimating elapsed dive time.
Modern Cerachrom bezel inserts are highly resistant to scratches, corrosion, and ultraviolet fading.
Chromalight Display
Modern Rolex Submariner Date watches use a Chromalight display for visibility in dark conditions.
The hour markers and hands produce a long-lasting blue glow, making the dial easier to read underwater or in low light.
The large luminous markers and distinctive hour hand help the wearer quickly identify the time.
Oyster Bracelet and Glidelock Clasp
The Oyster bracelet uses three-piece solid links and is designed for strength, comfort, and durability.
The Oysterlock safety clasp helps prevent accidental opening. The Glidelock extension system allows the bracelet length to be adjusted without tools.
Although Glidelock was designed to fit the watch over a diving suit, it is also useful for making small comfort adjustments during daily wear.
Submariner Date vs. No-Date Submariner
The Submariner Date and no-date Submariner share the same professional dive-watch foundation but offer different dial designs.
Submariner Date
The Submariner Date includes:
Date window at 3 o’clock
Cyclops magnifying lens
More material and bezel options
Calibre 3235 on current models
No-Date Submariner
The no-date Submariner offers:
Clean and symmetrical time-only dial
Oystersteel and black bezel configuration
Calibre 3230 on the current 124060
A design closer to the original Submariner concept
Choose the Date if you want additional daily functionality. Choose the no-date model if you prefer simplicity and symmetry.
Hulk vs. Kermit vs. Starbucks
Green Submariner Date references are among the most searched and collected Rolex sports watches.
Rolex Kermit 16610LV
Black dial
Green aluminum bezel
40 mm case
Calibre 3135
Discontinued anniversary reference
Rolex Hulk 116610LV
Green dial
Green ceramic bezel
40 mm super case
Calibre 3135
Produced from 2010 through 2020
Rolex Starbucks 126610LV
Black dial
Green ceramic bezel
41 mm case
Calibre 3235
Current-generation reference
The Kermit offers neo-vintage character, the Hulk has the boldest all-green appearance, and the Starbucks combines a green bezel with current Rolex technology.
Rolex Submariner Date Price
Rolex Submariner Date prices vary based on:
Reference number
Material
Production year
Dial and bezel
Condition
Bracelet condition
Box and papers
Service history
Discontinued status
Market demand
Factory or aftermarket modifications
Oystersteel black Submariner Date models are generally the most versatile. Green-bezel references may trade at higher prices because of collector demand.
Two-tone, yellow gold, and white gold models are priced higher because of their precious metal content.
Browse current ECI Jewelers inventory for current pricing and availability.
Does the Rolex Submariner Date Hold Its Value?
The Submariner Date has historically maintained strong collector recognition and resale demand.
References that may attract particular interest include:
Current Oystersteel models
Hulk 116610LV
Kermit 16610LV
Starbucks 126610LV
Vintage Red Submariners
COMEX-issued references
Rare dial variations
Complete sets
Well-preserved unpolished examples
No watch is guaranteed to increase in value. Condition, originality, documentation, and market demand can significantly affect resale performance.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date a Good First Rolex?
Yes. The Submariner Date is one of the most popular first Rolex watches because it is practical, durable, recognizable, and versatile.
It is well suited to buyers who want:
A luxury sports watch
A useful date display
Strong water resistance
A secure adjustable bracelet
A watch that works with casual or professional clothing
Long-term Rolex recognition
Strong pre-owned market demand
Buyers who prefer a dressier watch may consider the Datejust. Buyers who prefer a simpler dial may choose the no-date Submariner.
Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Date?
Buying pre-owned provides access to current models, discontinued references, vintage watches, specific years, rare variations, and immediate availability.
A pre-owned Submariner Date may offer:
Current references without waiting for retail availability
Discontinued Hulk and Kermit models
Previous-generation 40 mm references
Vintage aluminum-bezel watches
Complete sets
Different price points
Collectible production variations
At ECI Jewelers, every Rolex Submariner Date is inspected for authenticity, condition, and quality before being offered for sale.
What to Check Before Buying a Submariner Date
Before purchasing a pre-owned Rolex Submariner Date, check:
Reference and serial details
Dial originality
Bezel and insert condition
Case shape
Signs of excessive polishing
Bracelet condition
Clasp operation
Movement performance
Service history
Water resistance
Box and papers
Factory versus aftermarket parts
Reputation of the seller
Originality and condition become especially important when buying rare, vintage, or discontinued references.
Expert Opinion
The Rolex Submariner Date is one of the most complete luxury sports watches available. It combines a practical date display, professional dive-watch construction, strong water resistance, and one of the most recognizable designs in watchmaking.
The 126610LN is the most versatile modern choice. The 126610LV adds collector-friendly green color. The 126613LB Bluesy offers classic two-tone luxury, while the Hulk and Kermit appeal to buyers searching for discontinued references.
For daily wear, collecting, travel, or a first Rolex purchase, the Submariner Date remains one of the strongest choices in the Rolex collection.
Sell Your Rolex Submariner Date
ECI Jewelers buys and accepts trades on select Rolex Submariner Date watches.
Our specialists evaluate each watch based on:
Reference number
Production year
Material
Dial and bezel
Condition
Bracelet condition
Box and papers
Service history
Originality
Current market demand
Contact ECI Jewelers for a market-based evaluation or visit our NYC showroom for an in-person assessment.
Shop Rolex Submariner Date Watches at ECI Jewelers
Explore authentic Rolex Submariner Date watches at ECI Jewelers, including black, green, blue, Oystersteel, two-tone, yellow gold, and white gold configurations depending on availability.
Our inventory may include:
Rolex 126610LN
Rolex 126610LV Starbucks
Rolex 126613LN
Rolex 126613LB Bluesy
Rolex 126618LN
Rolex 126618LB
Rolex 126619LB
Rolex 116610LN
Rolex 116610LV Hulk
Rolex 16610
Rolex 16610LV Kermit
Browse available watches online or visit our NYC showroom to compare select references in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Submariner Date is a professional Rolex dive watch with a rotating timing bezel, date window, Cyclops magnifying lens, automatic movement, Oyster bracelet, and 300 meters of water resistance on current models.
When was the Rolex Submariner Date introduced?
Rolex introduced the Submariner Date in 1969. It added a date display to the professional diving features of the original Submariner.
What is the current Rolex Submariner Date reference?
The current black Oystersteel Submariner Date is reference 126610LN. The current green-bezel Oystersteel version is reference 126610LV.
Other current references include 126613LN, 126613LB, 126618LN, 126618LB, and 126619LB.
What size is the Rolex Submariner Date?
Current Rolex Submariner Date models have a 41 mm Oyster case. Previous ceramic references such as the 116610 measured 40 mm.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date actually 41 mm?
Rolex officially lists the current Submariner Date as 41 mm. Its redesigned case and narrower lugs give it more balanced proportions than the previous 40 mm super case.
What movement is inside the Rolex Submariner Date?
Current Rolex Submariner Date models use calibre 3235. Previous references such as the 116610 and 16610 use calibre 3135.
What is the power reserve of the Rolex Submariner Date?
Current models with calibre 3235 offer approximately 70 hours of power reserve.
How waterproof is the Rolex Submariner Date?
Current Rolex Submariner Date models are water resistant to 300 meters, or 1,000 feet.
Can you swim with a Rolex Submariner Date?
Yes. A properly maintained modern Submariner Date is designed for swimming and diving. The crown must be fully screwed down, and a pre-owned watch should be pressure tested if its water resistance is uncertain.
Can you scuba dive with a Rolex Submariner Date?
Yes. The Submariner Date is a professional dive watch with a 300-meter depth rating and a unidirectional bezel for monitoring elapsed dive time.
What is the difference between the Rolex Submariner and Submariner Date?
The Submariner Date includes a date window and Cyclops lens. The no-date Submariner has a cleaner and more symmetrical time-only dial.
The Date collection also offers more choices in bezel colors and precious metals.
Which is better, the Submariner Date or no-date?
Choose the Submariner Date if you want a date display and more configuration options. Choose the no-date Submariner if you prefer a cleaner dial and a design closer to the original model.
What is the Rolex Submariner Starbucks?
Starbucks is the unofficial nickname for reference 126610LV, which has a black dial and green Cerachrom bezel.
What is the Rolex Submariner Hulk?
The Hulk is the discontinued reference 116610LV. It has a green sunburst dial and green ceramic bezel.
What is the Rolex Submariner Kermit?
Kermit traditionally refers to reference 16610LV, which has a black dial and green aluminum bezel.
What is the difference between Hulk, Kermit, and Starbucks?
The Kermit has a black dial and green aluminum bezel. The Hulk has a green dial and green ceramic bezel. The Starbucks has a black dial, green ceramic bezel, 41 mm case, and newer calibre 3235 movement.
What is the Rolex Submariner Bluesy?
Bluesy is the nickname for the two-tone Submariner Date with a blue dial and blue bezel. The current reference is 126613LB.
What is the Rolex Submariner Cookie Monster?
Cookie Monster is an unofficial nickname for the white gold reference 126619LB, which has a black dial and blue ceramic bezel.
What is the most popular Rolex Submariner Date?
The black Oystersteel 126610LN is one of the most popular because of its versatility. The green-bezel 126610LV is also highly desirable among collectors.
Which Rolex Submariner Date should I buy?
Choose the 126610LN for classic versatility, the 126610LV for a green collector colorway, the 126613LB for two-tone blue styling, or a discontinued Hulk or Kermit for stronger collector character.
The best option depends on budget, wrist size, condition, and design preference.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date a good first Rolex?
Yes. It is one of the most popular first Rolex watches because it is durable, practical, recognizable, and suitable for daily wear.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date good for daily wear?
Yes. It has a durable Oyster case, sapphire crystal, secure Oyster bracelet, automatic movement, legible dial, date display, and strong water resistance.
Can you wear a Submariner Date with a suit?
Yes. Although it was designed as a dive watch, the Submariner Date is commonly worn with business clothing and suits. A Datejust or Day-Date may feel more traditional for highly formal occasions.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date too large for a small wrist?
The current 41 mm case works on many wrist sizes because of its balanced proportions and adjustable Glidelock clasp. Buyers with smaller wrists may prefer a previous-generation 40 mm reference.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date hard to buy at retail?
Yes. Demand often exceeds authorized dealer availability, especially for Oystersteel references. Retail availability and wait times vary by dealer and customer history.
Why is the Rolex Submariner Date so expensive?
Its price reflects Rolex manufacturing, movement technology, ceramic construction, precious materials, brand demand, limited retail availability, and collector interest.
Does the Rolex Submariner Date hold its value?
Many references maintain strong resale demand, especially Oystersteel models, green Submariners, discontinued references, and complete sets. Value can still rise or fall with market conditions.
Is the Rolex Submariner Date a good investment?
The Submariner Date has strong collector recognition, but no watch is guaranteed to increase in value. It is best purchased as a watch you want to own and wear.
Which Submariner Date holds value best?
Historically desirable models include Oystersteel references, the Hulk, Kermit, vintage Red Submariners, rare COMEX watches, and well-preserved complete sets.
Should I buy a new or pre-owned Rolex Submariner Date?
A new model provides the latest movement and bracelet technology. A pre-owned watch can offer immediate availability, discontinued references, vintage models, and more pricing options.
What should I check before buying a pre-owned Submariner Date?
Check the reference number, dial, bezel, case condition, polishing, bracelet, movement, service history, water resistance, box, papers, and whether any parts or diamonds are aftermarket.
How can I tell if a Rolex Submariner Date is authentic?
Authentication should examine the dial, case, movement, bezel, crystal, reference and serial details, bracelet, clasp, engravings, weight, and finishing.
Buying from an established dealer that professionally inspects each watch is the safest approach.
Does polishing reduce the value of a Rolex Submariner Date?
Heavy polishing can soften the original case edges and reduce collector value, especially on vintage or rare references. Light professional refinishing may be acceptable to many buyers.
Are aftermarket diamonds bad for a Rolex Submariner Date?
Aftermarket diamonds modify the original configuration and may reduce collector value. Factory-set Rolex diamond models are generally more desirable than aftermarket-modified watches.
Does a Rolex Submariner Date come with box and papers?
It depends on the individual watch. At ECI Jewelers, every Rolex watch includes the original Rolex box. Original Rolex papers are included when the watch is listed as a complete set.
What does complete set mean?
A complete set means the watch includes its original Rolex box and original Rolex papers or warranty card. Other accessories may vary by watch.
Is it safe to buy a Submariner Date without papers?
A watch without papers can still be authentic. Professional authentication, condition, service history, and seller reputation become especially important when original papers are missing.
How often should a Rolex Submariner Date be serviced?
Service needs depend on age, condition, performance, and use. Rolex generally recommends service approximately every 10 years, although frequently used or older watches may require attention sooner.
How often should a Submariner Date be pressure tested?
Pressure testing is recommended when water resistance is uncertain, particularly before swimming or diving. Older watches and recently opened cases should be tested by a qualified professional.
How accurate is the Rolex Submariner Date?
Current models are certified as Rolex Superlative Chronometers and are rated to approximately minus two to plus two seconds per day after casing.
How long will a Rolex Submariner Date last?
With proper care and servicing, a Rolex Submariner Date can last for decades and may be passed down through generations.
Can I finance a Rolex Submariner Date?
Yes. Financing options are available for qualified customers at ECI Jewelers.
Yes. ECI Jewelers buys and accepts trades on select Rolex Submariner Date watches. Evaluations are based on the reference, year, condition, material, dial, bezel, bracelet, box, papers, service history, and current market demand.
