Pick first: 116618LN, black dial

Two references, one case. The 116618 is the 40 mm Submariner Date in 18k yellow gold. Rolex sells it with a black dial and black Cerachrom insert (116618LN) or a blue dial and blue insert (116618LB). Listings that say "116618" with no suffix mean the blue version. The black 116618LN is the safer replica buy. Black hides small dial print errors, and the bezel insert is easier to match.

rolex 116618 clone for sale

Shared specs

  • Case: 40 mm, 18k yellow gold, 300 m water resistance
  • Movement: calibre 3135, 28,800 vph, 48-hour power reserve
  • Bezel: unidirectional, 60-minute scale, Cerachrom insert with gold numerals
  • Crystal: sapphire, Cyclops over the date, 2.5x magnification
  • Bracelet: Oyster, solid links, Glidelock clasp
  • Status: discontinued in 2020, replaced by the 41 mm 126618LN and 126618LB with calibre 3235

Where the two diverge

Dial color is the main difference. Applied indices, gold surrounds and blue Chromalight lume are the same on both. The blue insert sells at a higher premium on the secondary market and turns over slower in some regions, so factories ship fewer blue units and updates lag behind the black run.

best fake rolex 116618

What to check on either replica

  1. Weight. Gold is dense. Ask for a scale photo before payment. Numbers vary by factory; treat any weight claim without a photo as unverified.
  2. Plating. Thickness claims run from 3 to 5 microns. Ask how the caseback and clasp edges are finished, since those wear first.
  3. Movement. A clone 3135 shows engraved bridges and a gold-colored rotor. A decorated 2824 runs at 28,800 vph too, so ask for a movement photo.
  4. Bezel insert. One piece of ceramic, engraved numerals with gold fill. Printed numerals are a fail.
  5. Cyclops. 2.5x, date centered, no halo at the edge.
  6. End link fit. No gap between bracelet and lugs.

Options if black is not the answer

  • 116618LB blue: same case, blue dial and insert. Pick this if you already own a black Submariner.
  • 116613LB two-tone: steel case, gold bezel and center links. Less gold, lower price.
  • 116610LN steel: the base Submariner Date. Same 40 mm case and calibre 3135.

Bottom line

Take the 116618LN. Black dial, black insert, fewer color-matching risks. Move to the LB if the blue is the point of the watch for you.

best fake rolex 116618