Submariner release cycle

[cutter74]

I'm currently on the fence for a two-tone Submariner, 126613LN.

Given that two-tone models are not in such demand, I believe I could have a realistic chance of getting one in a few months time from my AD. On the other hand, I'm conflicted since the current Sub is a 2020 model and think it could be due for an update next year.

I know that Rolex doesn't really change their models dramatically anyway but what really holds me back is the possible return to the 40mm size which I would very much prefer.

Obviously no-one knows what Rolex plans for next year but given previous update cycles, do you think the Sub might get a new model after 5 years or is that perhaps too soon?

[illiguy]

Change isn’t always better, and there’s no guarantee Rolex will update the Submariner lineup anytime soon. The 11 series ran about 10 years before the 12’s debut in 2020.

[Neil McCauley]

Depending which two-tone Submariner you mean, you could probably get a black dial, black bezel 126613LN from an AD very quickly, likely with no purchase history too.

If it's a blue one you're after, you might have a tougher time at retail. Not impossible, but probably a longer wait.

I would say its HIGHLY unlikely that Rolex changes the case design back to 40mm next year but that's just my opinion. I don't feel like the current model has had a long enough time to really root itself, however as you say, the previous reference lasted between 2012 and 2019 if I recall?

I have a 126610LN (41mm) and I love it, the extra 1mm makes 0 difference, and the thinner lugs look great.

[brandrea]

The 12 and the 11’s wear about the same and look about the same IMHO. Yes yes the lugs and all, but aside from that the 1mm doesn’t make much difference. IMHO

As stated above I don’t see a change coming any time soon since the 12 was only released in 2020.

[Jwbrown1239]

The 12 series seems very popular and hasn’t been around long at all. Just my opinion but I think it will probably be a few more years before a change.

[APPRF]

11 series is much better especially the bracelet, clasp, and movement in my opinion. Only thing in favour of the 12 is the reserve. Go for older reference TT or the SD TT if you have the wrist for it. If you can tolerate the new 12 Sub bracelet and clasp you might as well go for the better looking Sea Dweller with only 1 mm difference.

[travisb]

If you like the current model there's no need to wait to see if any changes might come. Not all changes are upgrades.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by travisb

If you like the current model there's no need to wait to see if any changes might come. Not all changes are upgrades.

Well said

[SudiYunus]

Originally Posted by travisb

if you like the current model there's no need to wait to see if any changes might come. Not all changes are upgrades.

+1

[worldofoyster]

Originally Posted by APPRF

11 series is much better especially the bracelet, clasp, and movement in my opinion. Only thing in favour of the 12 is the reserve. Go for older reference TT or the SD TT if you have the wrist for it. If you can tolerate the new 12 Sub bracelet and clasp you might as well go for the better looking Sea Dweller with only 1 mm difference.

second that

[cutter74]

All valid points. Yeah, realistically the current model ticks all the boxes for me; the only upgrade in my eyes would be a 40mm case.

The other thing for me to consider is whether the ongoing price increases are justifying waiting for a new model with a smaller case size that may or may not come next April.

[Scottyboy]

Originally Posted by cutter74

All valid points. Yeah, realistically the current model ticks all the boxes for me; the only upgrade in my eyes would be a 40mm case.

The other thing for me to consider is whether the ongoing price increases are justifying waiting for a new model with a smaller case size that may or may not come next April.

They only just brought out the Sub in 2020 with the 41mm case, they will not being going backwards next year and brininging out another 40mm Sub. No chance.

[1William]

There is no time like the present to purchase. Rolex watches will only get more expensive as time goes on. Get into some AD's and ask for the watch. You might be surprised how quickly you get one.

[Robf52]

Originally Posted by 1William

There is no time like the present to purchase. Rolex watches will only get more expensive as time goes on. Get into some AD's and ask for the watch. You might be surprised how quickly you get one.

This.

[Mystro]

The biggest difference with the Bluesy/TT Sub is the gold or white color of dial text. That would determine which one I would buy. The 12 series Sub isn’t changing any time soon so consider the text color and the glidelock clasp size in your decision.

[JRell]

2030 until you see any changes

[Scottyboy]

This model was brought out in September 2020, so not even 4 years old yet and they had the previous version Sub for around 10 years.

Check any 2020 watch on a timegrapher for low amplitute issues, My Sub was from 2020 and had to go back for repair.

[jb335]

Likely too soon


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[WS9D]

Get the current one. If they make changes to a future ref you like better, you can trade this one in. In the meantime u get to enjoy your new 12-series LB

I owned a 116613lb and now have a sub41 date. I feel like they wear the same for me

[SubDate]

I have read multiple places the 41 Sub actually measures 40.6mm diameter that means an extra .3mm on each side from a true 40mm. How in any way does that make a difference?

[Krash]

A new Submariner isn’t coming out anytime soon. Years and years from now. I have the 40 and love it. I’d be just as happy with a 41.

Here are the two side-by-side. (Note: not my picture. Someone else previously posted this.)





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[thesharkfactor]

There was an update to the 116610 Submariner around 2014.. the initial release had sandblasted clasp, double line rehaut and rounded edge crown guards. The later 116610 has a polished clasp, single line rehaut engraving and pointy edge crown guards.

The 116613LB Submariner saw an update soon after its initial relase, the first watches had a flat blue dial which was soon updated to a sunburst dial. Same changes as noted above also apply to the 116613LB/LN.

So they do get updated and or slight changes not long into a release, it's not unheard of. Would I hold my breath or let the chance of a change influence a new purchase? No..

[Neil McCauley]

People are so funny

I bet I could put an empty 116 or 126 case in the vast majority of enthusiasts' hands, and they wouldn't be able to tell me which reference it was.

41mm is horrible arghhhh lol get the hell outta here

[Henrimontgomery]

Wait, it's not an iPhone or Macbook, Rolex is not operating on a 4-5 years cycle.

[Paddydog52]

Obviously it’s impossible to say with any certainty, the Kermit had a 7 year run and the hulk had a 10 year run but there is no rhyme or reason why Rolex do what they do and when they do it with regards to discontinuations and new releases, history would suggest you’re probably looking at 2-3 years or even longer but then again they could change it on the next update next April, that’s how they keep people on their toes as if they were too predictable then everyone would know when to pile in on a particular model that are convinced must be due an update yet Rolex will update/discontinue the model nobody is expecting hence it could be any model at any time! Fairly sure the update will be this decade but when is the question!