A yellow gold Rolex Submariner is the Submariner Date cased entirely in 18 ct yellow gold, sold in a blue-dial version (126618LB, earlier 116618LB) and a black-dial version (126618LN, earlier 116618LN). The current references are 41 mm, rated to 300 m, and run the Rolex caliber 3235. This guide explains how the generations and dial colors differ, how the gold model compares with steel and with two-tone Rolesor, and who it suits. Bizak & Co. is a sourcing desk, not an authorised Rolex retailer, and nothing here is a stock listing.
Last reviewed on October 28, 2026 by Filip Biczak. Sources: Rolex, Submariner Date 126618LB, Rolex, Submariner Date 126618LN and Watches of Switzerland reference page.
What is the Rolex yellow gold Submariner?
It is the precious-metal version of Rolex's dive watch, with the same functional design as the steel Submariner Date in a solid 18 ct yellow gold case and matching Oyster bracelet. Rolex lists the current models as 41 mm with a unidirectional rotatable 60-minute bezel and a 300 m (1,000 ft) water resistance rating. The date window sits at three o'clock, and the crown is a screw-down Triplock type.
Which yellow gold Submariner references exist?
Two generations matter for most buyers: the 40 mm 116618 family and the 41 mm 126618 family, each offered with a blue or a black dial. Rolex introduced the 41 mm 126618 generation in 2020. Our catalogue also shows an older 16618 yellow gold Submariner Date, which predates both.
| Reference | Dial and bezel | Case | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 126618LB | Royal blue dial, blue Cerachrom bezel | 41 mm, 18 ct yellow gold | Current Rolex catalogue |
| 126618LN | Black dial, black Cerachrom bezel | 41 mm, 18 ct yellow gold | Current Rolex catalogue |
| 116618LB | Blue dial, blue bezel | 40 mm, 18 ct yellow gold | Discontinued predecessor |
| 116618LN | Black dial, black bezel | 40 mm, 18 ct yellow gold | Discontinued predecessor |
Blue or black: which dial suits you?
Blue is the livelier choice and black is the more versatile one. The blue dial and bezel play against the gold and read as warm and expressive, which is why it tends to draw more attention. The black version is closer to the classic Submariner look, with gold doing the work of making it dressier. Neither changes the specification, so the decision comes down to taste, wardrobe and how conspicuous you want the watch to be. If you lean toward the darker look, browse our Rolex Submariner black dial page to compare it with steel and two-tone versions.
Does the yellow gold Submariner come on an Oysterflex strap?
The current Rolex listings we reviewed show the yellow gold Submariner Date on an Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock folding clasp and Glidelock extension, and we found no catalogue listing for it on Oysterflex. Oysterflex is Rolex's rubber-based strap, so buyers often ask whether a gold Submariner offers it. If a seller advertises a gold Submariner on a rubber strap, ask for the reference number and check it against Rolex's own listing before you proceed.
How does it compare with steel and Rolesor?
The gold model shares the steel Submariner's design and function but differs in material, weight and presence. The Rolex Submariner 126610LN is the steel, black-dial, 41 mm reference with a ceramic bezel. Rolesor refers to Rolex's combination of Oystersteel with gold, covered in our two-tone Rolesor guide. A fully gold watch is gold on the case, bracelet and bezel surround, while a Rolesor watch mixes the two metals.
| Feature | Yellow gold (126618) | Steel (126610LN) | Yellow Rolesor (126613) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case material | 18 ct yellow gold | Oystersteel | Oystersteel and gold |
| Case size | 41 mm | 41 mm | 41 mm |
| Water resistance | 300 m | 300 m | 300 m |
| Movement | Caliber 3235 | Caliber 3235 | Caliber 3235 |
| Look and feel | Heavy, formal, high-visibility | Tool-watch, understated | Mixed, lighter gold presence |
For the older steel generation, see our comparison of the Submariner 16610 and 116610LN.
What movement and specifications does it use?
Both current references use the Manufacture Rolex caliber 3235, a self-winding movement with a power reserve of about 70 hours according to the Watches of Switzerland reference page. Rolex lists both as Superlative Chronometers, meaning the movement is certified and then tested again after casing. The 300 m rating and the Triplock crown match the steel model, so the extra cost of gold buys materials and presence, not additional diving capability.
Who is a yellow gold Submariner for?
It suits buyers who want the Submariner design in a precious metal and are comfortable with a heavier, more visible watch. It tends to appeal to those who already own a steel sports watch and want a dressier second piece, and to buyers who like a classic gold Rolex. It is a poorer fit if you want a discreet daily wearer, since gold attracts attention and shows scratches more readily than steel. Our best gold Rolex guide compares yellow, rose and white gold models if you are still choosing a metal.
How can you get a yellow gold Submariner sourced?
Bizak & Co. sources watches on demand, so you tell us the reference and we search for a specific unit. Start from our Rolex Submariner yellow gold page, browse the wider Rolex Submariner range, or see the full Rolex collection. Reference numbers, condition and paperwork all change what is available, so be specific about what you want.
Quick answers
What is the difference between the 126618LB and 126618LN?
Dial and bezel color only. The 126618LB pairs a blue Cerachrom bezel with a royal blue dial, and the 126618LN pairs a black bezel with a black dial. Case, movement and water resistance are listed as the same for both.
Does the yellow gold Submariner come on an Oysterflex strap?
The current Rolex listings we reviewed show the yellow gold Submariner Date on an Oyster bracelet, and we found no catalogue listing for it on Oysterflex. Treat any rubber-strap claim as something to verify against the specific reference and paperwork before you commit.
How is a yellow gold Submariner different from a Rolesor one?
A yellow gold Submariner is gold throughout, case and bracelet. A Rolesor model combines Oystersteel with gold, so it looks lighter and wears lighter, and it is a different reference family.
Is the yellow gold Submariner a good everyday watch?
It can be. It keeps the 300 m rating and the Triplock crown of the steel model, but the solid gold case and bracelet make it heavier and more noticeable, and gold shows scratches more readily than steel.
Can Bizak & Co. source a yellow gold Submariner?
Yes, we source on demand. Tell us the reference, dial color and condition you want through the sourcing enquiry form, and we confirm the specific watch, photographs and final price before you commit.
Related reading: Two-Tone Rolex (Rolesor), Best Gold Rolex and Submariner 16610 vs 116610LN.
Get your Rolex sourced
Tell us the model, size, dial and bracelet preference, whether you want new or pre-owned, and your budget and timing, through our sourcing enquiry form. We confirm the specific watch, photographs and final price before you commit, so you can arrange financing against a real target.
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