In the market for a Rolex Smurf? Read on for all of the info on this iconic blue watch, including details, features, and comparisons.
The Rolex Smurf Submariner was released in 2008. That year marked the 100th anniversary of the company with “Rolex” as its name. Additionally, it was the 55th anniversary of the Rolex Submariner.
After a brief production, Rolex discontinued the Submariner ‘Smurf’ 116619 in 2020 to make way for a new generation of Subs.
Its counterpart is the new reference 126619. Like the Smurf, it comes in 18k white gold and with a blue Cerachrom bezel, only now the case measures 41mm and it comes with a black dial.
See also: Baselworld Canceled and How Watch Brands are Responding
History of the Rolex ‘Smurf’ Submariner (Ref. 116619)
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116619 was introduced at Baselworld 2008. The blazing blue hue quickly earned the ‘Smurf’ nickname; as in the blue cartoon characters from the ’80’s.
Related: Rolex Submariner “Hulk” 116610LV Review
Submariners had seen a lot of prior success, especially the Rolex Kermit that released a few years earlier. Although it brought initial pushback, eat Kermit went on to become a major collector’s piece.
You’d think the Rolex Smurf– the first Submariner ever offered in white gold– would also be a coveted model. It surprisingly never garnered that much attention, although it’s a sharp looking watch.
Rolex Smurf Submariner Details
Dial
Quick notes
- lacquered “wet” blue dial vs sunburst
- Maxi dial (larger luminous markers/wider hands)
The ‘blue on blue’ dial and bezel was a change from the traditional blue dials Rolex had released. Instead of a sunburst dial, the Rolex Smurf showcases a solid, lacquered blue dial with a matching blue bezel.
The almost ‘wet’ blue look pays homage to the Submariner’s diving watch roots.
Also worth noting, the Rolex Smurf dial is known as a “Maxi Dial.” It features larger luminous markers and wider hands.
Bezel
Quick notes
- Cerachrom bezel
- unidirectional and rotatable
- engraved 60 minute graduations
This was one of the first models to feature a Cerachrom ceramic bezel. Of course Rolex crafted their own ceramic alloy, calling it ‘cerachrom.’ It’s a combination of the words ceramic and “chrom” (the Greek word for color).
Cerachrom ceramic is scratch-proof, water-resistant, and virtually indestructible. Perfect for a daily wear sports watch!
The unidirectional rotatable bezel has always been a key feature of the diver watch. The engraved 60-minute graduations allow a diver to accurately and safely monitor diving time and decompression stops.
Case and Bracelet
Quick Notes
- first ever Submariner to feature an18 karat white gold case/bracelet
- 40 mm case
Rolex went out on a limb with this release. The Rolex ‘Smurf’ looks like a typical steel tool watch, but the bracelet and 40mm Oyster case are actually made of 18 karat white gold. It’s the only Submariner to ever be offered (so far) in white gold.
Why is white gold on a Submariner such a big deal? A Submariner has always been one of the more affordable Rolex models. It’s considered an introductory watch for most collectors.
The white gold addition significantly increased the price tag. The ‘Smurf’ was immediately elevated into an elite class. One it’d never been a part of before. Also, gold just isn’t a metal you’d expect to see on a tool watch.
The Smurf Submariner’s release featured another Rolex first. A new Glidelock clasp allowed the bracelet length to be extended up to 5 mm without any additional tools.
Technical Specs
Reference Number
116619LB
Case
Oyster, 40 mm, white gold
Clasp
Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system
Movement
Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Bezel
Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in platinum
Dial
Blue, Highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence
Crystal
Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
Waterproofness
Waterproof to 300 metres / 1,000 feet
Bracelet
Oyster, flat, three-piece links, 18 ct white gold
Final Thoughts
The Rolex quality and craftsmanship are definitely noticeable when you put a Smurf on your wrist. The weight and feel of this watch definitely leaves an impression.
The icy blue and white gold combination is sure to turn heads as well. We like the unique combo. It’s not one that Rolex has replicated a lot, but it seems to work.
The Rolex Smurf hasn’t increased in value as quickly as some of the other Submariners have, but it’s still worth a look.
Especially with rumors it could get a few updates soon.
If you are interested in purchasing your own Rolex Submariner, give us a call or fill out our contact form. Check out our Facebook page for box openings and watch reviews by our in-house watch expert Sergio Nuncio!
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