Looking to BUY...16618 or 116618LB? Help me decide!

[JDCunny]

Currently, I own an LV Sub and a Jubilee Pepsi. Looking to jump into a PM SUB.

I am planning on buying one of the following and need advice. The decision includes me being money conscience (If money was no object, I would get the Ceramic without question).

Seems like a clean 16618 (Only looking at SEL) can be purchased around $19K

I don’t mind that series, very similar to my current LV (except that my LV has Maxi Dial) and I wouldn’t be upset with that purchase.

BUT

I would really like to see if there is a way for me to justify paying the extra $5.5K to jump to a 116618LB.

Pros that I see:

1) More modern case style (updated)
2) Wears Larger (I’m 6’1” and 200lbs so the size would be appreciated)
3) Little heavier - assuming extra gold content to increase intrinsic value a little to compensate for extra cost.
4) Updated movement - not sure how much ‘better’ it is but updated is generally good
5) Ceramic Bezel - Gold fill markers and ceramic is a much nicer bezel.
6) Glide Lock - I would appreciate the adjustment more and assume it would be a little more comfortable (although my LV is fine)

Cons that I see:

1) Obviously not “classic” as previous style - although that will likely change over the years.
2) $5500 more expensive (My biggest hurdle)
3) I like the style of the clasp on previous gen better




Thoughts from the group? Upside over time is likely similar (if any) so it really revolves around upfront cost. I wont be adding another PM in the near future, so have to make this one count!

It the Ceramic worth the extra $5500ish?

[Sublovin]

Both are nice but I really prefer the new bracelet...it’s likely a good bit heavier too. If this is a temporary watch or stepping stone, maybe go older/cheaper. If this is your ultimate keeper...spend the extra.

[Anton911]

I have a number of ceramic Rolex with the maxi dial which I like,however I also have a 16618,2008 model.
The proportions of this watch are fantastic and prefer the more elegant shape of the 16618 compared to the ‘blocky’ look of the 116618.

[Notsoprobro]

Where are you finding a 116618LB for $24.5K????? I'd hop on that immediately!

I prefer the ceramic bezels, but it really boils down to preference. I've tried on the 16618 and the 116618 and I much prefer the updated model.

If it's something you'll keep long term, stomach the extra cost and go for the best.

[Bigblu10]

I bought the 116618LB. Like the glide lock clasp, A.R. under cyclops, modern case and ceramic insert. Worth the extra $$ to me, but YOU have to wear it. Not sure where you can source a new 116618 for 24K-ish though. They are trending close to 30K by TS here on the forum. Got mine for 25K and change but that was in summer of '17 before all the madness started.

[JDCunny]

Good points on 116618LB, it has been a bit since I saw the ‘best’ deals under that $25K range....but I see them at $25-$25.5K today

Still makes the difference closer to $6K

Makes me lean back toward the SEL 16618 as the difference creeps up.

[armybuck041]

Flipped a BLRO and a TT Bluesy for mine. Couldn’t be happier. My NIB was in the $29’s.

[Mobert19]

Originally Posted by anton911

i have a number of ceramic rolex with the maxi dial which i like,however i also have a 16618,2008 model.
The proportions of this watch are fantastic and prefer the more elegant shape of the 16618 compared to the ‘blocky’ look of the 116618.

100%

[s14roller]

I’d opt for newer

[NeoAnderson]

Did you try them both on?

[Qinhan]

Originally Posted by armybuck041

Flipped a BLRO and a TT Bluesy for mine. Couldn’t be happier. My NIB was in the $29’s.

Fantastic looking watch.

[Boaters]

Newer for sure.

[joli160]

Easy 116618


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Chope Man]

I preferred the classic look of the 16618 (mine is of the later batch, with engraved rehaut and no holes in the lugs).

The thinner lugs help to visually integrate the case to the band (and vice versa).

Either watch is great, anyway.

[peterpl]

6 Digit man. That's the only way to do it for these pieces.

[Flex368]

Ceramic bezel and glidelock are reason enough to get the 116618.

[peterpl]

Also where is a new 116618LB for under $25k? Please send me link I will buy it right now.

[Oldyellar]

I have a 16618 I'd sell

[mjclark32]

I’ve been wearing a 16610 for 8 or so years now. I test drove a 116618 for a weekend and couldn’t get used to it. My wrist prefers 5 digit subs (7” wrist)
They’re the same movements btw, 3135.
I suggest trying on a 6 digit sub before purchasing
Good luck

[1William]

I own the 116618LB and it is a great watch. For me there is no comparing it to the 16618 as it fits differently, looks differently and wears a lot differently. I am also a taller person at 6'6'' and 255 lbs and the size of the watch helps with proportions. I guess we are really talking about money, as if they were the same, you would go with the 6 digit. So you have the answer. Get the six digit for the best price you can find. I would go pre-owned from a TS, pay and enjoy. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[watchwatcher]

Originally Posted by JDCunny

Currently, I own an LV Sub and a Jubilee Pepsi. Looking to jump into a PM SUB.

I am planning on buying one of the following and need advice. The decision includes me being money conscience (If money was no object, I would get the Ceramic without question).

Seems like a clean 16618 (Only looking at SEL) can be purchased around $19K

I don’t mind that series, very similar to my current LV (except that my LV has Maxi Dial) and I wouldn’t be upset with that purchase.

BUT

I would really like to see if there is a way for me to justify paying the extra $5.5K to jump to a 116618LB.


Cons that I see:

1) Obviously not “classic” as previous style - although that will likely change over the years.
2) $5500 more expensive (My biggest hurdle)
3) I like the style of the clasp on previous gen better

It the Ceramic worth the extra $5500ish?

If you like the tuna can clasp better than the glide lock, I'm afraid there's not much I can help you with. Good luck,

[Maiden]

Both great watches and I am going through the same dilemma. Leaning now more towards the five digit as I prefer the more elegant case lines. (oddly enough only in gold, love my chunkier 114060 in SS)

I would like to clarify that I believe all the gold subs have SEL and solid bracelet links so the only differences between the two are:
Glidelock clasp
Ceramic Bezel
Maxi dial markers.
Lug/case shape

Both are great, good luck in your decision. Hope to post my incoming soon one day as well.

[904VT]

6 digit. The Glidelock will be much appreciated In PM

[JDCunny]

Originally Posted by Maiden

Both great watches and I am going through the same dilemma. Leaning now more towards the five digit as I prefer the more elegant case lines. (oddly enough only in gold, love my chunkier 114060 in SS)

I would like to clarify that I believe all the gold subs have SEL and solid bracelet links so the only differences between the two are:
Glidelock clasp
Ceramic Bezel
Maxi dial markers.
Lug/case shape

Both are great, good luck in your decision. Hope to post my incoming soon one day as well.

Such a tough decision. I haven’t been anywhere where I can put them on back to back. I’ve owned but styles, and they both wear well.

Still can’t decide...$6K difference is enough to make it tough!

[JDCunny]

Originally Posted by watchwatcher

If you like the tuna can clasp better than the glide lock, I'm afraid there's not much I can help you with. Good luck,

I just mean the exterior style of the look of continued bracelet versus smooth.

Buckle of 6 digits is better in every way.

[Rado63]

Great question, and this could go either way. The colors of the 16618 are different and the aluminium bezel gives the watch a classic look. It is still 40mm but wears it size, while the new reference has different colors and wears larger. With the price of all Rolex increasing, I wonder if the value buy is the 16618?

[Alan111]

It really depends on the size of your wrist and hand. I prefer the shape, size and over aesthetics of the 16618. In a perfect world, I would want a 16618 with maxi dial, ceramic bezel, AR'd cyclops and updated clasp from the 116618.

[locutus49]

These are luxury goods. If 6K is giving you anxiety you should pass.

Originally Posted by JDCunny

Such a tough decision. I haven’t been anywhere where I can put them on back to back. I’ve owned but styles, and they both wear well.

Still can’t decide...$6K difference is enough to make it tough!

[JDCunny]

Originally Posted by locutus49

These are luxury goods. If 6K is giving you anxiety you should pass.

Spending $100 without justification gives me anxiety, lol

Affording either option is not an issue.

[Bigblu10]

Originally Posted by JDCunny

Spending $100 without justification gives me anxiety, lol

Affording either option is not an issue.

Then buy the current version. I did and love it. The 16618 has long been discontinued and you would need to be lucky to find one that is like new, especially if worn regularly. It is a big purchase and in my opinion new>used.