From iconic no-date designs to bold two-tone models, these are the 12 best-selling Rolex Submariners collectors are chasing in 2025.
Most collectors would agree that the Rolex Submariner is one of the best luxury watch models to buy. This iconic watch set the standard for the dive watch category when it made its debut back in 1953. Over the past seven decades, the “Sub”, as collectors fondly call it, has grown beyond a simple piece of diving equipment into one of the most sought-after luxury tool watches in the world.
To keep passionate divers, investors, and seasoned collectors enamored with this collection, Rolex has added several impressive models and references. From vintage timepieces to contemporary models, the references in this collection feature both technical advancements and subtle aesthetic updates while still retaining the timeless Submariner DNA. In this guide, we will review the 12 best-selling Submariner models, exploring the distinctive features that make them such exceptional pieces.
The Rolex Submariner 16610 Date model made its debut in 1988 to replace the short-lived Ref 168000, which was discontinued shortly before it. Today, this watch is the model collectors refer to when they speak of the “Classic Submariner”. That’s because it is one of the most popular Vintage Submariner models on the market. This timepiece was the last Submariner model to feature the beloved aluminum bezel inserts, which were replaced with ceramic inserts in subsequent models. It is also the last Sub with a five-digit reference number.
In fact, back in the early 2000s, when this timepiece was still in active production, it was the most commonly recommended timepiece for any first-time Rolex Buyer. A perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern features, the Submariner 16610 is characterized by its classic size and aluminum Bezel.
The famous Submariner "Kermit" is a variant of the ref 16610. This reference was part of Rolex’s release to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner back in 2003. It is one of the most recognizable variants of this model, characterized by a green bezel and maxi case with enlarged indices.
Through its 22-year production run, all versions of this model were produced in corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel. They were simple time-and-date-only models powered by the automatic Rolex 3135 movement. They all maintained a diameter of 40mm and a case thickness of approximately 12.7 mm. The collection was discontinued in 2010, with the Ref 116610 announced as its replacement.
The Rolex Submariner 14060 is a unique Rolex model commonly regarded as the last of the classic Submariner watches. It was released in 1990 as a replacement for the long-running Submariner Ref 5513, which had been part of the watchmaker’s catalog since 1962. The Ref 14060 is considered an intersection between vintage and contemporary Submariner models due to the timing of its release and its retention of several classic features.
The Submariner 14060 is beloved by collectors, particularly Rolex lovers who prefer the classic no-date Submariner models. While the controversial date feature was added to the Submariner in 1967, Rolex maintained a distinct line of classic timepieces without the date function to appeal to a section of its audience. The watches in this category are quite attractive to purists and buyers who prefer timepieces with a minimalistic design.
Other unique features of the reference 14060 that pay homage to its classic roots include the Aluminum Bezel and the presence of lug holes. This watch was the last Submariner model with this design, which is another reason why collectors love it. The Ref 14060 was the first no-date Submariner to feature a sapphire crystal and a Triplock crown. This combination raised its depth rating to 300 meters instead of 200m like older models. The Submariner 14060 is one of the least expensive Submariner models, perfect for buyers on a small budget.
The Rolex Submariner Ref 114060 was released in 2012 as a direct successor to the Ref 14060. Its predecessor, which was in production from 1990 to 2009, was a collector’s favorite, renowned for its minimalist no-date design. The newer model had practically the same design as the 14060, with the main difference being the use of a Ceramic bezel instead of classic aluminium bezel inserts. The ceramic Bezel is a lot more durable and corrosion resistant - a trade-off for the unique appearance that the Aluminum gains as it ages.
This model was one of the watches that ushered in the modern era of the Rolex Submariner. It features a number of notable updates, including the super case, which is chunkier compared to the classic models. This appearance instantly comes off as modern without compromising comfort.
This watch also features a maxi dial and oversized numerals, promoting legibility while accentuating the symmetry of the black dial’s no-date layout. This watch is powered by the calibre 3130, an in-house built self-winding movement with Swiss chronometer certification.
This watch is a popular Submariner even without a date. Despite the modern features of the Ref 14060 timepiece, collectors seem to like it more for its classic aesthetics, reminiscent of the original Submariner and other classic no-date models.
The Rolex Submariner 11610 is considered contemporary by many collectors. This makes sense considering it is a direct successor to the classic 11610 sub. This model was released in 2010, shortly after the older model was discontinued, and introduced a number of technological advancements to the collection.
This model combines classic design elements with modern advancements, starting with its innovative Cerachrom bezel (Rolex's proprietary ceramic material). In addition to adding an attractive glossy finish to the Submariner, the Cerachrom Bezel was also more resistant to scratching and classic.
Another notable aesthetic difference was the beefier appearance of the case. Commonly referred to as the Super Case, the case design of this reference was characterized by widened lugs that were shortened by a few millimeters compared to its predecessor. This casing also features a maxi dial to match, which promotes legibility.
The Rolex Submariner 11610 is powered by the caliber 3135 movement, which is both precise and reliable. The movement is protected by robust sapphire crystals and broad crown guards. These combined to deliver a depth rating of up to 300 meters. The robust build of this timepiece makes it suitable for underwater adventure and as a stylish accessory for everyday use.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date Ref 116613LN is a special two-toned variant of the Submariner. The case and bracelet of this watch are constructed from a contrasting combination of rugged Oyster Steel material and lustrous 18k yellow gold (Rolex’s Rolesor material).
While the material combination gives this watch a luxurious appearance, the Ref 116613LN is renowned for its durability. The In-house forged Oyster Steel and Yellow Rolesor are of the highest quality. They’re designed to be both scratch and corrosion-resistant. These features make the timepiece highly sought-after, especially for those looking for a watch that can be worn anywhere without worry.
Like other new Submariner models, this watch also features resilient black Cerachrom ceramic bezel inserts. The dial has a lacquered black color as well, which matches the bezel color. The numerals and text markings are printed in glossy white color, creating a contrast against the dark background. The rare, exotic, and practical aesthetics of this Submariner model have made it a staple for Submariner collectors.
The Rolex Submariner 11613LB is the blue dial variant of the two-tone Rolesor Submariner. The first Submariner model to feature the Cerachrom ceramic bezel, this timepiece was released in 2009. Like the other two-tone Submariner references that were released before it, it came in a blue dial option alongside the more traditional black dial variant.
In addition to the luxurious casing, the distinctive blue color of this timepiece made it instantly popular, earning the nickname “Bluesy”. The blue dial pays homage to the nautical origin of the Submariner as a watch built for serious diving and other Aquatic uses.
For the first three years of this watch’s production, Rolex made the dial in a flat shade of blue designed to match the tone of blue on the bezel. This changed in 2013 when Rolex switched to the more vibrant sunburst dial, giving the watch an even more distinct appearance.
In 2020, Rolex introduced a new collection of Submariner watches presented in a larger 41mm case. This signalled the end of the Reference 116613LB Submariner timepiece along with other 40mm Submariners.
The Rolex Submariner reference 116610LV made its debut in 2010 as a replacement for the famous green bezel Rolex Kermit (a variant of the ref 16610). Unlike the Kermit, this watch features Cerachrom Bezel inserts instead of aluminum.
The reference 116610LV features the same green bezel color as the older watch, but now comes paired with a green sunburst dial. This distinctive appearance earned the timepiece the nickname “Hulk” after the famous Marvel comics superhero with a similar all-green color.
In addition to the colorway, this watch also comes in the famous Submariner Super Case. While the case diameter is still 40mm, like several other submariner models, the stainless steel casing features wider lugs, high sides, and a hefty crown guard. This design gives the watch a bulkier appearance, which aligns well with its nickname.
A combination of qualities, including its vibrant color, massive proportions, and a nickname that fits perfectly, makes the Hulk one of the fan favorites in the Submariner collection. The popularity of this watch model soared in 2020 after it was discontinued, making way for the “Starbucks” model. Consistently high demand and soaring prices make buying Submariner Hulk a hugely profitable investment, even now when prices are not as high as they used to be.
The Rolex Submariner 126610LN-0001 is part of the new generation of Submariner Date watches. It was introduced in 2020 and came in a 41mm casing, which makes it slightly larger than the previous generation of Submariner watches.
The Submariner Ref 126610LN-0001 is an exquisitely crafted watch that combines seven decades of precision engineering and timeless design into a truly modern timepiece. The casing of this watch is a stainless steel monobloc design paired with an elegant bracelet made of the same material.
Like other modern versions of the Submariner, this watch comes with Cerachrom Bezel inserts in a black color, which matches the black glossy dial. The dial has a classic and legible appearance, with oversized luminescent hour markers. \
The Rolex Submariner 126610LN-0001 runs on a truly modern self-winding mechanical movement - the Caliber 3235 Rolex movement, which comes with a number of notable modern upgrades, including a Paraflex shock absorber system and a paramagnetic hairspring to maintain optimal precision at all times. This impressive piece of precision engineering is a popular choice for collectors who want a modern Submariner model with refined and elegant aesthetics.
The Rolex Submariner 124060-0001 was released in 2020 along with other New Generation Submariner watches. This model is an upgraded version of the No Date Submariner. Like its predecessor, it is known for its minimalist time-only design, which is exactly what purists love about it. Fans of the traditional no-date Submariner will definitely have no problem with this new generation variant.
Despite the simple design of this watch, the Submariner Ref. 124060-0001 is still considered an iconic timepiece with a robust and versatile appearance. In this watch, Rolex went for a slightly larger 41 mm case size, which has become the standard in newer models of the Submariner. The casing features a few subtle upgrades that improve its overall profile, including slimmer lungs and a slightly different bracelet design. It is also powered by a new in-house movement.
The casing is just as robust as ever, characterized by an Oyster steel case and bracelet with its unidirectional rotatable bezel featuring a scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in a prominent black color. This timepiece is powered by an upgraded Rolex in-house calibre 3230 movement. This powerful movement operates on a power reserve of up to 70 hours. It is water resistant to an impressive 300m depth, a standard in all modern Submariner models.
The Rolex Submariner 126610LV-0002 is the latest addition to the famous family of green Submariner timepieces. It was released in 2020 as a direct replacement for the Rolex Submariner reference 116610LV, popularly called the Rolex Hulk by fans.
Like its predecessors, the Rolex Starbucks also got an unofficial nickname from fans based on its unique color. The green color of its Cerachrom bezel and the black dial are reminiscent of the
associated with the Starbucks logo, hence the nickname.
The Rolex Starbucks shares several similarities with the Hulk, with a few subtle differences, including thinner lugs, a slightly bigger case size of 41mm, a black dial (instead of green), and an updated movement. Despite the bigger case size, Starbucks still maintains a refined and elegant aesthetic.
This watch shares the same black dial as the much older Rolex Kermit. The movement in this watch is the self-winding caliber 3235, the same movement in the new generation Submariner date model (Ref 126610LN-0001). Modern tweaks to this movement include a Paraflex shock absorber and an upgraded hairspring for improved precision.
The Rolex Submariner 126613LB-0002 is the latest iteration of the two-tone Rolesor Submariner. Like its predecessor (the Submariner Ref 11613LB), this watch features a vibrant blue dial, earning the nickname “Bluesy” just like the older variant. The blue dial is matched by bezel inserts made from Cerachrom ceramic material. This ceramic bezel is resistant to dings and scratches, so it preserves its perfect appearance for a relatively long time.
This elegant timepiece was added to the Submariner collection in 2020, updating the story of the famous two-tone blue model in a newly redesigned casing featuring some subtle upgrades. The casing and bracelet of this watch are made from a combination of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and yellow gold.
The case has a 41.00mm diameter, which is just slightly larger than the dimensions of the previous generation. This watch is powered by the modern self-winding Caliber 3235 movement.
This material combination of the Submariner model is both rugged and luxurious, making it one of the most spectacular-looking models in the Submariner collection. The modern Bluesy is famous with style-conscious fans of the Submariner who want a classy but durable watch that elevates their appearance.
The Rolex Submariner Ref 126618 LB is considered a modern classic and one of the most iconic pieces in the Rolex Submariner series.. This watch is part of the new generation of Submariner watches that were released in 2020. It has a unique aesthetic that stands out right away, especially because Submariner models and other Rolex tool watches are typically produced in stainless steel instead of fine yellow gold.
This unique choice of material blends traditional tool watch aesthetics with an exquisite contemporary design and a sense of opulence that is unusual for a Submariner model. The warm and rich tone of the yellow gold casing of this timepiece is perfectly complemented by a striking blue dial and bezel. The blue ceramic bezel insert frames the sunburst blue dial perfectly, earning this timepiece the "Yellow Gold Bluesy" nickname.
This watch is considered a direct predecessor of the Submariner Ref 116618 LB, which was initially released in 2008 and discontinued in 2020. The new watch shares similar aesthetics with its predecessor, but comes in a slightly slimmer case with thinner lugs and wider bracelets (the 21mm lug width is 1mm higher than that of traditional Sub bracelets).
These spec upgrades resulted in a watch with a more balanced and proportionate look compared to the bulky older model. The dimensions also ensure that this watch maintains a comfortable fit on the wrist while maintaining a luxurious presence.
That concludes our overview of the best-selling Submariner models you can consider buying in 2025. While some of these watches are still in production, they’re highly sought-after pieces that will be difficult to lay your hands on from official retailers. A few of these Submariner models have also been discontinued, meaning the only way to get them is from the secondary market.
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