Many watch fans love to compare the Rolex “Smurf” and the Rolex “Cookie Monster”. Both are made from white gold, both have blue bezels, and both are famous parts of the Submariner line. They come from different times in Rolex history and each one has its own style.

Let’s look at where they came from, what makes them different, how much they cost, and which one might be better for you.

Background

Rolex collectors like to give nicknames to watches. These names make it easier and more fun to talk about them.

The Rolex Smurf (Ref. 116619LB) came out in 2008. It was the first Submariner made fully in 18k white gold. Its bright blue dial and blue ceramic bezel made people think of the cartoon Smurfs. It stayed in production until 2020, when Rolex stopped making it.

That same year, Rolex launched the Rolex Cookie Monster (Ref. 126619LB). It also has a white gold case, but the dial is black and the bezel is blue. The colors look like the Cookie Monster from Sesame Street. This model is still being made today.

Rolex “Smurf” 116619LB vs Rolex “Cookie Monster” 126619LB

How They Compare: Case, Dial, Calibre, and More

You may think the only difference between the Rolex Smurf and the Rolex Cookie Monster is the dial, but that is not true. There are more changes that Rolex made on the Cookie Monster. The first one is the case size, which went from 40 mm to 41 mm. Rolex made it a bit larger to give the watch a wider and cleaner look. The lug width also became a little larger so the bracelet fits better with the new case. The case is also slimmer, and this makes the watch sit flatter and feel more comfortable on the wrist. The dial changed too. Besides the color from blue to black, Rolex added a small crown mark between the words “Swiss Made” at the bottom of the dial. The biggest change is the movement. The Cookie Monster uses the new Calibre 3235, which keeps better time and runs longer with a 70-hour power reserve. These updates make the Cookie Monster look more modern and feel better to wear, while still keeping the same spirit as the Smurf.

Rolex Submariner Blue Bezel “Cookie Monster” 126619LB

Prices: Retail and Market

Rolex Smurf (Ref. 116619LB)

The retail price for the Rolex Smurf was around $38,000 USD. Since it was discontinued, prices on the market have changed over time. In 2025, the market price is usually between $35,000 and $55,000 USD, depending on the condition, year, and if it comes with the box and papers. 

Rolex Cookie Monster (Ref. 126619LB)

The retail price for the Rolex Cookie Monster in 2025 is around $48,000 USD. On the market, it can often be found for about $38,000 USD, sometimes a bit higher depending on the set and condition. Even though it is still in production, it can be hard to buy from authorized stores, so many people turn to the secondary market instead.

Market and Investment Outlook

The Rolex Smurf is now discontinued, and this has made it more desirable to collectors. Based on watch market data, the price of the Smurf has gone up in 2025. Because it is a limited and special model made in white gold, many people see it as a good choice for investment. Its rarity gives it strong liquidity, which means it can be sold more easily when compared to many other modern Rolex watches. The Smurf also shows good value retention, as prices have stayed high even years after production ended. For collectors or investors, this model offers both exclusivity and a solid chance of long-term appreciation.

Rolex Cookie Monster (Ref. 126619LB)

The Rolex Cookie Monster is still in production, and the demand for it is lower than for the Smurf. Because of this, it may not be the best choice if you are looking for short-term investment growth. The price is steady, but not rising, which shows that it has stable value but slower potential for appreciation. In terms of liquidity, it can still sell well because it is a white gold Submariner, yet it does not have the same collector appeal as the discontinued Smurf. This model is better suited for someone who wants to wear and enjoy the watch rather than hold it mainly for investment.

What Collectors Think and My View

Collectors often have different opinions when it comes to the Rolex Smurf and the Rolex Cookie Monster. Some people love the bright blue dial of the Smurf because it stands out and feels special. Others prefer the black dial on the Cookie Monster because it balances the blue bezel and looks more calm and refined.

If you are thinking about getting one, it helps to decide what matters most to you. Do you care more about style or investment?

If style is what you care about, then the choice is simple. Ask yourself what kind of look you like. The Smurf has a full blue design that is bold and eye-catching. The Cookie Monster has a blue bezel and black dial that looks softer and easier to wear every day. If you are unsure, try both on your wrist. Seeing how each one feels in person can help you decide.

If investment is your main goal, then the Smurf is the better option. It is discontinued, rare, and has shown strong value growth. Many collectors believe it will continue to rise in price over time.

In the end, both watches are great choices, but the best one for you depends on what you value more: how it looks or how it performs as an investment.