SUBMARINER MODEL, REF. 116619LB, CASE NO. Y18880M2, CIRCA 2016

For the first time in its history, Rolex introduced a serially produced white gold Submariner in 2008 with the launch of reference 116619LB. This model offered collectors a more understated precious-metal option within the Submariner line and was an opulent yet sturdy version of the iconic dive watch. The striking blue bezel that precisely matches the dial is referred to by the suffix 'LB', which stands for lunette bleu (blue bezel). The watch quickly became known to collectors as the 'Smurf' due to its striking monochromatic color scheme.

Among the defining features of the reference is its scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezel in a rich aquatic blue, with numerals and graduations coated in platinum to enhance durability and legibility. Large applied hour markers and white gold hands adorn the sunburst blue dial, which matches the bezel's hue. These have a long-lasting blue glow in low light as they are filled with Rolex's Chromalight luminescent material.

Combining the robustness expected from the iconic Rolex Submariner with the refined presence of white gold, reference 116619LB stands as a modern classic within Rolex’s contemporary sports watch collection.