Rolex Submariner "Purple Dial" Ref. 16618 in 18k Yellow Gold with Original Warranty Paper
The Inside Story
We are thrilled to present an exceptional yellow gold Submariner with a remarkable twist! This reference 16618 boasts a stunning case and bezel, with sharp lines and a fascinating red oxidation detail on the case—adding a unique character to this iconic timepiece.
The caseback features a French import stamp, further emphasizing the watch's historical and geographical provenance. The blue bezel insert remains unfaded and free of major imperfections, while the accompanying Oyster bracelet (Ref. 92908) is in excellent condition. It includes solid end links, a dive extension, and a clasp stamped “R 2.”
The true standout feature is the dial, which has undergone a mesmerizing transformation from its original blue soleil finish to a rich purple hue. The tritium hour markers have aged beautifully to a warm beige tone, complementing the hands, which are slightly lighter but retain their tritium luminescence.
Adding to its charm, this watch comes with its original punched warranty paper. Although the first letter of the serial number wasn’t punched and was later added by hand (as shown in the images), the warranty documents a sale in Paris in 1994—a delightful detail that aligns perfectly with the French import stamp on the caseback.
Rolex’s ability to reimagine the rugged Submariner as a luxurious statement piece is truly remarkable, and this gold version perfectly balances tool watch functionality with the elegance of the jet-set lifestyle. If you love this exceptional piece as much as we do, we’d love to hear from you!
Specifications:
- Rolex Submariner Ref. 16618
- 18k yellow gold case with French import stamp on caseback
- Serial N227xxx, 1991 production, sold in 1994
- Color-changing purple dial
- Blue bezel insert
- Oyster bracelet Ref. 92908 with solid end links and dive extension
- Original punched warranty paper, with handwritten 'N' correction, noting a sale in France
- Fully serviced by our watchmaker
- One-year mechanical warranty
- Free worldwide FedEx Priority shipping
This watch has been certified at Certifiwatch under registration number CF-0104678
Service & Warranty
Why Buy From Us?
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Service & Warranty
Our Service
Each vintage timepiece is individually selected and carefully inspected by our team of experts. After we buy a watch it is mechanically inspected and fully checked by our watchmaker. If necessary, the movement will be fully serviced and tested to ensure it is running to our exacting standards.
We will always describe the watch as fully as we can in our sales texts. Our zoomable images are of the highest possible quality and form an important part of each watch’s description. We will never hide or cover up any element of any watch we sell.
Key to our unparalleled service is Fedex Priority shipping, fully insured. Once you have received your watch, we encourage you to inspect it thoroughly. If you are not 100% satisfied, please let us know. We offer a 14 days return policy. Simply return the watch to get a full refund of the original purchase price.
Our Warranty
We offer a one-year warranty on the mechanical function of the watch, starting from the day of purchase. We do not guarantee the waterproof nature of any (vintage) watch, unless expressly made in writing. Therefore, our warranty will not cover any damage done to the case and/or movement by water or moisture entering the watch. Our warranty does not apply to accidental damage or mishandling of your watch and does not extend to the bracelet, case parts (including pushers, winding stem, crown and bezel), watch glass, dial and hands.
Why Buy From Us?
We Love Watches
We are passionate about vintage watches and we love talking about them! That is why we don't sell our watches with a simple "Add to cart" button, but instead try to emulate a truly boutique experience online. Helping you find your perfect vintage watch is our Watch Department’s raison d’etre. Whatever you would like to ask, please do. Building our community of watch lovers is central to our mission at Bulang and Sons.
We Know Watches
At Bulang and Sons we have sold thousands of watches over the years. We are a small team of experienced collectors and connoisseurs who are all part of an extensive global network of buyers and sellers. We have a great reputation for offering only the highest quality watches. We have one simply rule: we only buy and sell watches we want to own ourselves. And yes, we are still collectors too.
We Guarantee Watches
As collectors, we know how intense the search for a specific vintage watch can be. Once you find it at Bulang and Sons, we want to make things easy, safe and fast for you. Therefore, we offer the most comprehensive return policy and warranty; you will not find a safer place on the internet to buy a vintage watch. You can relax and enjoy your deal with Bulang and Sons.