Free Valuations & Sales Advice on Your Rolex Submariner

In the 1950s, diving was revolutionized by the Aqua-Lung, and the world of diving watches was equally transformed by the introduction of Rolex’s iconic Submariner. Known for its robustness, precision, and timeless design, the Rolex Submariner quickly became a benchmark in the industry, setting the standard for professional dive watches. Over the decades, various editions of the Rolex Submariner have been released, each with subtle updates, adding to their appeal and making them some of the most sought-after timepieces in the vintage Rolex market.

At Mark Littler Ltd, we specialise in helping collectors and owners value and sell their Rolex Submariner watches with confidence. Whether you own a classic reference or a limited-edition model, our team offers a free valuation service and can provide no-obligation offers. Explore our quick guide on key features to identify in your Submariner, from distinctive dial markings to specific reference numbers, and discover how you can maximise the value of your investment.

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Expert Rolex Submariner Watch Valuation

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How To Value Your Rolex Watch

How It Works
Simply complete our contact form, and we’ll begin working on your behalf. We offer trusted, independent advice to help you sell your Rolex watch for the highest possible price. Our team will guide you through various options, whether it’s auction or private sale, to ensure you find the best solution tailored to your needs.

How to Sell
If you’re considering selling your Rolex watch at auction, this can be an effective way to reach competitive buyers. However, not all auctions offer the same advantages, so selecting the right auction house is essential. While the internet may appear to level the playing field, each auction house has its unique strengths. Mark Littler Ltd can introduce you to the most suitable auction house based on your location, free of charge, giving you confidence that your Rolex will achieve the best possible price.

If a private sale is more advantageous, we can help negotiate this option, often saving you significantly on commission fees. Private sales can also be arranged swiftly, allowing you to receive payment more quickly than an auction might provide.

Rolex Valuation Tips
To ensure the most accurate valuation of your Rolex, please provide the following details. Note – if you don’t have this information to hand, don’t worry. Just send over as much as you can.

Model and Reference Number: Include the model and reference number (often found between the watch lugs or on paperwork), as it’s essential for determining the exact variant.
Condition: Let us know if the watch is operational and if it has any cosmetic wear. Even minor details like scratches can impact value.
Year of Production: Knowing the approximate year of production can help refine our valuation, especially for vintage or rare models.
Provenance: If the watch has a notable history—such as being owned by a prominent figure or handed down within a family—please share it, as this can add unique value.
Boxes and Paperwork: Original box, warranty card, and service history records can significantly impact value, so be sure to include this information if available.

Six things to look for in your Rolex Submariner

Dial

Subtle variations in the dial and text on your Rolex submariner can help you to identify not just your model but the specific edition:

The position & colour of ‘SUBMARINER’, if it is present at all
Numbers or just markers at 3/6/9 (explorer or submariner-type dials)
Is the 12o’clock triangle equilateral or isosceles?
Are the meters and feet depths present? If so where and what colour are they?
Is the dial gloss or matte black?

Hands

There are changes and progressions of hand style, size, colour and decoration. The material the hands are made from and the luminous paint used are all key distinguishing points for different editions. Everything down to the size and position of the seconds hand dot can help identify a specific Rolex edition.

Pencil hands were used on the earliest edition
Mercedes hands were introduced in 1955.
What colour is the seconds hand? Bronze, white or silver.

Crown & Bezel

Like with other factors, subtle variations in the crown and bezel were introduced over the years and can help determine your Submariner’s model & edition:

Size of the crown and decoration
Crown guards were introduced from 1959 on model 5512
Are the crown guards pointed or square?
Shape of the numbers on the bezel – rounded or squared
Colour of the 12o’clock triangle

Box & Papers

When looking to value your vintage Rolex Submariner the original box and papers should be present to get the best valuation for your timepiece. If your Submariner is one of the armed forces editions (versions of models 6538, 5513 and 5517) you should also source the proper provenance (corresponding badges, paperwork, photographs etc.) in order to get the best prices and attract collectors.

Condition

When considering the condition of your Rolex Submariner first check that wear is the same all over. If a certain part of the watch shows more or less wear than the rest of the piece then this indicates that some parts have been replaced or repaired, which can impact the value. However, damaged watches can still be valuable, especially if they are military pieces with provenance.

Reference & serial No.

Found at the 6’oclock side of the case on vintage Rolex, the serial number is the watch’s unique identity and shows you when the watch was made. The reference number is engraved on the 12o’clock edge and describes the model and what your Rolex Submariner is made from. The model and time of production are two of the most important factors in determining the value of your Rolex.