Rolex Fever: Essential Reference Guide
Reference Guide

Rolex Fever: Essential Reference Guide

By Mr.Gatsby · Aug 24, 2024 · 45 replies
Mr.Gatsby
WPS member · Rolex forum
45 replies11939 views11 photos
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Mr.Gatsby's recent acquisition of the Rolex Submariner 126619LB, affectionately known as the 'Cookie Monster,' offers a compelling look into the allure of precious metal sports watches. His detailed review explores the nuances of its design, from the evolving blue bezel to the refined case proportions, providing valuable insights for collectors considering this distinctive reference. This article delves into why the 126619LB stands out in the Submariner lineage and how it represents a shift in collecting focus for many enthusiasts.

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While browsing intensely last night I’ve decided to pick up the Rolex 126619LB today at a local grey dealer. The price was too good to be true in the resale market.



The stock photo on the website had always captured my attention. That blue bezel insert always reminds me of the 1675 GMT Blueberry reference (whose authenticity is often debated). Photos online however have always shown the bezel color to be of a different hue, and of a different nature.

Nevertheless, I decided to buy one purely from a relative price perspective, and also because, I wanted a less common submariner on top of the 126610LV that I’ll be receiving in due course.



I’ve gotta say…a precious metal sub is just out of the ordinary for me. Never owned one, and never thought I would. But clearly with my younger years behind me, buying that “adult” watch is going to be in focus.




The Cookie Monster, as it’s been affectionately known as, does channel some of that New York finance bro kinda vibe. It’s got that bit of understated feel but on the wrist the heft reminds you it’s an important watch. Also the warm sheen of white gold oozes a subtlety that only the wearer would appreciate when wearing it as opposed to a stainless steel watch. While the bezel insert is nothing like what has been depicted in its official stock photo (a rather nice navy like blue), I love how it intensifies into an electric sort of blue under strong natural or artificial light. And in darker settings that electrifying blue eases into a rich royal blue, so to speak.

Do I like the reference 126619LB? Well I’m going to have to say yes, despite some cons. The most important tick on one of my boxes is the redesigning of the case. The squarer case of the earlier Submariner case is something I didn’t quite appreciate, due to that imbalance in case to bracelet ratio. So this latest reference rectifies it. It also looks relatively slim on the wrist thanks to a slim looking case band. I also do love that the dial is now black, which brings out a stark and very obvious contrast on the blue bezel insert, which its predecessor lacked. The blue on blue, ya know…can be a little bit much. So the combination of a black dial/blue bezel insert is a welcoming change. So together with the center polished links on the oyster bracelet this watch comes together rather nicely, in a slick and luxurious manner. The cons. Firstly, the clasp is now longer which I find unnecessary. I rather have more bracelet than clasp. Again it’s a links to clasp ratio argument. Secondly, I would’ve preferred proportions be kept at 40mm without a further 1mm increase. Or in other words, I do prefer the modern submariner to wear just slightly smaller. Bigger is not always better. And in this case, a precious metal watch just feels better if it’s more compact, discreet and unassuming. The last thing you want is for it to scream for attention. This is however, just a matter of taste and preference.




So, a white gold submariner with an electric blueberry insert at the end of the day for me it’s one of those watches that feels somewhat grown up but still fun to wear with that pop of color. The heft of gold reminds you of its importance but yet doesn’t weigh you down like how a platinum Daytona would.

When I wear the Cookie Monster, I do feel as though I’ve entered that new phase of adulthood. Yet I also know the kid inside of me still knows how to have fun.

Two more wrist shots here under the evening sun just so because I can’t enough of it (yet):



Thanks for looking. HAGWE you all.

Best
Gatsby

About the Rolex GMT Ref. 1675

The GMT-Master reference 1675 is a significant model in the brand's history, representing an evolution from earlier GMT-Master references. It was produced for an extended period, allowing for numerous dial, bezel, and hand variations throughout its production run. This reference is notable for its introduction of crown guards, enhancing the watch's robustness and contributing to its distinct profile. It solidified the GMT-Master's design language, which would influence subsequent generations.

This reference features a 40mm case, available in stainless steel, yellow gold, or a two-tone combination of steel and yellow gold. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 1575, a chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The bidirectional rotating bezel, typically with an aluminum insert, displays a 24-hour scale.

For collectors, the 1675 is highly sought after due to its long production period and the resulting variety of configurations, including different dial types (gilt, matte), hand styles, and bezel colors (Pepsi, all-red, all-black). Its four-digit reference number and acrylic crystal are key characteristics that define it as a vintage Rolex. The reference appeals to those interested in the historical development of the GMT-Master line and the nuances of vintage watch collecting.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 1575
Case
Yellow Gold
Diameter
40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AR
Arronax
Aug 24, 2024
A great sub for sure

Thank you for sharing your in depth impressions. Considering where steel prices are, I personally find precious metal models more attractive, even if I don't have any rolex in the stable. Wear it in good health!

MR
Mr.Gatsby
Aug 24, 2024
Thanks Arronax :-)

Well, I think steel Rolexs are always going to be in demand. They are the bread and butter stuff for the brand. Also relatively affordable. The gold pieces however are expensive, and are priced accordingly with where the price of gold is. In that regard if you like a precious metal Rolex I think the grey market does offer opportunities. Best Gatsby

CH
Chronometer (aka yacomino)
Aug 24, 2024
Huge congrats and i must say your pictures of this reference are absolutely incredible. I love white gold Rolexes as they have subtle change to the steel version which make them unique!

The feeling on the wrist must be cool!

MR
Mr.Gatsby
Aug 24, 2024
Thanks brother

The feeling on the wrist is sublime. Never owned a precious metal sports diver. This is the first, and could very well be my last. Best Gatsby

CH
Chronometer (aka yacomino)
Aug 24, 2024
I dont yet have one and was originally aiming for the Day Date but i might consider this sub or a white gold Pepsi!

MR
Mr.Gatsby
Aug 25, 2024
Would love to know what you eventually pick my friend

Always fascinates me to be a part of someone’s watch collecting journey. I think at some point I will begin writing posts on my watch collecting journey here. It’s been two and half decades of serious watch collecting, I’m definitely going to want to pen down some of my thoughts (be it right or wrong lol). Best Gatsby

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