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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Rolex 116613 Submariner}}
{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Rolex Submariner Date 116613 — BezelBase
|title=Rolex Submariner 116613 (2009–2020) — Production & Dial Guide | Rolexopedia
|description=The 116613 is the ceramic-bezel Rolesor Submariner Date. It replaced the aluminum-insert 16613 around 2009 and ran until the 41mm 126613 with caliber 3235…
|description=Guide to the Rolex Submariner Date 116613: 2009–2020, steel and yellow gold, caliber 3135, black and blue dials, and documented auction examples.
|keywords=Rolex, 116613, Submariner, specifications, reference guide
|keywords=Rolex, 116613, Submariner, specifications, reference guide
|image=Ref 116613 hero.jpg
|image=Ref 116613 hero.jpg
|image_alt=Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613
|image_alt=Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613
|type=article
|type=Article
|og_type=article
|og_type=article
|published_time=2026-04-14T16:12:59Z
|published_time=2026-04-14T16:12:59Z
|modified_time=2026-04-23T04:34:40Z
|modified_time=2026-08-04T00:07:34Z
|robots=index,follow,max-image-preview:large
|robots=index,follow,max-image-preview:large
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}}


<small>[[Reference:submariner|Submariner]] → '''116613'''</small>
<small>[[Reference:submariner|Submariner]] › '''116613'''</small>


The 116613 is the Cerachrom-bezel Rolesor Submariner Date, in production from around 2009 until the 41mm 126613 with caliber 3235 took over in 2020. It sits in the middle of the ceramic-era Submariner generation — more accessible than the full-gold 116618, more distinctive than the steel 116610LN — and it carries the Rolesor bracelet (polished yellow-gold center links against brushed steel outers) forward into the Cerachrom age.
<div class="rp-lead">
[[File:Ref 116613 hero 2.webp|thumb|center|640px|alt=Rolex 116613 Submariner|Rolex 116613 Submariner]]
</div>


The step up from the 16613 is substantial. Cerachrom replaced the aluminum bezel insert, Glidelock replaced the Fliplock clasp, and the wider Maxi-format markers under Chromalight lume made the dial both larger and brighter. The Super Case lugs changed the wrist proportions. The two-tone identity carries forward, but in handling the watch is a different object.
The 116613 is the 40mm steel-and-yellow-gold Submariner Date introduced in 2009 and replaced by the 41mm 126613 in 2020. It uses caliber 3135 and a ceramic Cerachrom bezel insert. Rolex calls the steel-and-gold combination Rolesor. The 116613LN has a black dial and bezel; the blue 116613LB is often called the “Bluesy.” [https://www.fratellowatches.com/rolex-submariner-116613-versus-16613/ Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010]
 
The blue-dial variant, 116613LB, is known universally as the "Bluesy," a nickname inherited from the 16613LB. Blue sunburst dial, blue Cerachrom bezel, and polished gold center links produce a visual coherence that makes this the defining two-tone Submariner configuration, and the reason most buyers come to the reference.


<span id="core-facts"></span>
<span id="core-facts"></span>
==Core facts==


[[File:Ref 116613 hero.jpg|thumb|right|340px|alt=Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613|Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613]]
{| class="wikitable rp-facts"
 
! Detail !! Specification
== Core facts ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! detail
| Reference || 116613; LN (black) and LB (blue)
! value
|-
|-
| reference
| Family || Submariner Date
| 116613 (LN = black, LB = blue)
|-
|-
| family
| Model run || Introduced 2009; replaced in 2020
| Submariner Date
|-
|-
| production
| Movement || Automatic caliber 3135, quick-set date, approximately 48-hour power reserve
| approximately 2009 to 2020
|-
|-
| movement
| Case || 40mm; steel and 18ct yellow gold
| caliber 3135 (date, quick-set, 28800 bph, ~48hr power reserve)
|-
|-
| case
| Crystal || Sapphire with Cyclops date lens
| 40mm Super Case, Rolesor (904L steel + 18k yellow gold)
|-
|-
| crystal
| Water resistance || 300m
| sapphire with Cyclops
|-
|-
| water resistance
| Bezel || Unidirectional; Cerachrom insert with gold-coated numerals and graduations
| 300m
|-
|-
| bezel
| Lume || Chromalight, blue emission
| Cerachrom ceramic (blue or black), platinum-filled numerals
|-
|-
| lume
| Bracelet and clasp || Steel-and-gold Oyster; Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock adjustment
| Chromalight (blue glow)
|-
|-
| bracelet
| Predecessor / successor || 16613 / 126613
| Oyster ref.93253 with Glidelock, solid gold center links
|-
| rehaut
| engraved ROLEX ROLEX
|-
| predecessor
| 16613
|-
| successor
| 126613
|}
|}
The technical specifications above follow Rolex’s 116613LB brochure. [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5]


<span id="where-it-sits-in-the-line"></span>
<span id="where-it-sits-in-the-line"></span>
== Where it sits in the line ==
== Where it sits in the line ==


The 116613 is the Rolesor member of the ceramic-era Submariner generation. Alongside it sit the steel 116610, the full yellow-gold [[Reference:116618|116618]], and the full white-gold [[Reference:116619LB|116619LB]]. All four share caliber 3135 and the Super Case architecture. Rolesor — Rolex's term for its steel-and-gold construction — puts the 116613 above the steel 116610LN in price and prestige, below the full-gold 116618.
The 116613 replaced the aluminum-bezel 16613. Its wider lugs and crown guards give the case the blockier profile collectors call the “Super Case,” although the nominal diameter stayed at 40mm. The same generation included the steel 116610, yellow-gold [[Reference:116618|116618]] and white-gold [[Reference:116619LB|116619LB]]. [https://www.fratellowatches.com/rolex-submariner-116613-versus-16613/ Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010]


<span id="two-tone-submariner-lineage"></span>
<span id="two-tone-submariner-lineage"></span>
Line 80: Line 61:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Reference !! Place in the line !! Case diameter !! Bezel insert
|-
|-
! reference
| 16613 || Preceding generation || 40mm || Aluminum
! years
! case material
! bezel material
! successor retail
|-
| 16613
| 1988–2009
| Rolesor (steel/gold)
| aluminum (fades)
| —
|-
|-
| 116613
| 116613 || Introduced 2009 || 40mm || Cerachrom ceramic
| 2009–2020
| Rolesor (steel/gold)
| Cerachrom ceramic
| —
|-
|-
| 126613LB
| 126613 || Introduced 2020 || 41mm || Cerachrom ceramic
| 2020–present
| Rolesor (Oystersteel/gold)
| Cerachrom ceramic
| $18,900 USD
|}
|}


The 116613 succeeded the 16613 after a 21-year run on aluminum and carried the two-tone Sub across the ceramic generation for roughly eleven years. The 2020 refresh moved the line to Oystersteel branding, a 41mm case, new bracelet width, and caliber 3235. Through its own run the 116613 stayed on the 40mm case and the 3135 throughout.
Rolex dates the 41mm redesign to 2020, when the Submariner Date adopted caliber 3235. Rolex also uses the Oystersteel name in its 116613 brochure. [https://www.rolex.com/watches/submariner/from-tool-watch-to-icon Rolex, Submariner history, 2020 entry] [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5]


<span id="what-changed-from-the-16613"></span>
<span id="what-changed-from-the-16613"></span>
== What changed from the 16613 ==
== What changed from the 16613 ==


The execution is substantially different from the 16613.
The main changes were the ceramic bezel insert, broader case profile and Glidelock bracelet adjustment. The 16613’s long production run complicates some comparisons, particularly bracelet and dial details. [https://www.fratellowatches.com/rolex-submariner-116613-versus-16613/ Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010]
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! feature
! 16613
! 116613
|-
| bezel insert
| aluminum, fades and scratches
| Cerachrom ceramic, fade-proof
|-
| bracelet clasp
| Fliplock with divers extension
| Glidelock (20mm micro-adjust)
|-
| lug width
| slimmer
| wider (Super Case)
|-
| lug holes
| present
| absent
|-
| lume
| SuperLuminova or Luminova (green glow)
| Chromalight (blue glow)
|-
| markers
| standard
| Maxi (larger)
|-
| gold center links
| hollow on some, solid on late
| solid throughout
|-
| rehaut
| plain (early) / engraved (late)
| engraved throughout
|}
 
On the 16613LB, the aluminum bezel faded from vivid blue to the softer shade collectors call a "ghost" bezel, and bezel condition was a primary market factor. Cerachrom eliminates both the patina appeal and the fading problem entirely.


<span id="production-outline"></span>
<span id="production-outline"></span>
<span id="production-volume-estimates"></span>
<span id="Production_volume_estimates"></span>
== Production outline ==
== Production outline ==


The 116613 ran for roughly eleven years with both the LB (blue) and LN (black) variants available throughout. No major mid-run mechanical changes are documented. Caliber 3135 stayed across the full production run. The one documented cosmetic evolution sits on the LB dial — a flat-to-sunburst change around 2013 — treated separately below.
Robert-Jan Broer’s January 2010 comparison dates the 116613’s introduction to Baselworld 2009. Bonhams later catalogued a blue example, case V87****, as circa 2008. That approximate lot date conflicts with the launch report and does not establish an earlier introduction. [https://www.fratellowatches.com/rolex-submariner-116613-versus-16613/ Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010] [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/25958/lot/164/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613-circa-2008/ Bonhams, London, 17 November 2020, lot 164]
 
The 2009–2020 model run should be kept separate from dates on sales papers. Antiquorum’s 2022 lot 310, for example, records a December 2017 sale date; it does not give an exact manufacturing date. [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-355-310 Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310]


<span id="the-blue-dial-evolution-flat-to-sunburst"></span>
<span id="the-blue-dial-evolution-flat-to-sunburst"></span>
== The blue dial evolution: flat to sunburst ==
== The blue dial evolution: flat to sunburst ==


Around 2013 Rolex changed the 116613LB dial from a flat, uniform blue to a pronounced sunburst finish that shifts from midnight blue in shadow to a brighter, sky-inflected blue in direct sun. No sharp serial-number cutoff exists; collectors identify the type by visual inspection. Both are correct factory configurations. The sunburst is more visually dynamic, but some collectors prefer the earlier flat dial for its quieter character against the gold accents.
Early blue dials have a relatively uniform finish. Later examples have a sunburst finish, with radial reflections that change as the watch tilts. Bob’s Watches dates the switch to 2013. That dealer chronology is useful as an approximate guide; a precise factory changeover or serial-number boundary remains unverified. [https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/watch-review/submariner-116613-sunburst-dial.html Bob’s Watches, 116613 sunburst-dial guide]


<span id="movement-notes"></span>
<span id="movement-notes"></span>
== Movement notes ==
== Movement notes ==


Caliber 3135 throughout — Parachrom blue hairspring, Microstella regulation. The 116613 is the last ceramic-era two-tone Submariner on the 3135 before the 126613 moved to caliber 3235 with a 70-hour reserve.
The 116613 uses caliber 3135 with a quick-set date and stop-seconds function. Rolex’s brochure specifies a blue Parachrom hairspring and approximately 48 hours of power reserve. The 126613 successor uses caliber 3235. [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5] [https://www.rolex.com/watches/submariner/from-tool-watch-to-icon Rolex, Submariner history, 2020 entry]


<span id="dial-map"></span>
<span id="dial-map"></span>
Line 175: Line 102:
=== Diamond and serti dials ===
=== Diamond and serti dials ===


Early 116613 production included factory diamond-set Serti dials as a catalog option. Serti — from the French ''sertissage'', gem-setting — is the factory diamond-indices dial Rolex also offered on earlier Rolesor references. Rolex Forum discussions place the discontinuation of the Serti option around 2013, coinciding with the sunburst dial change on the standard LB. Serti examples are the rarer factory configuration and a distinct collector target within the reference.
Antiquorum’s Hong Kong sale of 10 May 2020 included a black diamond-set dial on a 116613, case G778362, dated circa 2010. The catalogue calls it a “Serti” dial, a term used for gem-set dials. This identifies the configuration offered at auction; original factory delivery of that dial would need separate documentation. [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613-oyster-perpetual-date-submariner-1000-ft-300-m-superlative-chronometer-officially-certified-lot-328-89 Antiquorum, Hong Kong, 10 May 2020, lot 89]


<span id="blue-dial-lb"></span>
<span id="blue-dial-lb"></span>
=== Blue dial (LB) ===
=== Blue dial (LB) ===


Blue dial with gold applied markers and hands. The flat-to-sunburst evolution around 2013 is covered above.
The blue dial is paired with a blue ceramic bezel insert. Collectors distinguish the early flat finish from the later sunburst dial. [https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/watch-review/submariner-116613-sunburst-dial.html Bob’s Watches, 116613 sunburst-dial guide]


<span id="black-dial-ln"></span>
<span id="black-dial-ln"></span>
=== Black dial (LN) ===
=== Black dial (LN) ===


Black dial with gold applied markers and hands — the quieter configuration. Black reads more conservatively against the gold accents and typically trades below the LB on the secondary market.
The LN pairs a black dial with a black ceramic bezel insert. Bonhams’ 2017 lot 6 is a documented example, with case number G55****. [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/24232/lot/6/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613ln-sold-20th-june-2012/ Bonhams, London, 21 June 2017, lot 6]


<span id="case-bezel-crystal-and-crown-notes"></span>
<span id="case-bezel-crystal-and-crown-notes"></span>
== Case, bezel, crystal, and crown ==
== Case, bezel, crystal, and crown ==
[[File:Ref 116613 detail 2.jpg|thumb|right|250px|alt=Detail view|Detail view]]
[[File:Ref 116613 detail.jpg|thumb|right|250px|alt=Detail view|Detail view]]


Rolesor construction — 904L Oystersteel case with 18k yellow-gold bezel, crown guards, and a Triplock crown. The Cerachrom insert carries platinum-filled numerals. Sapphire crystal with Cyclops. The inner rehaut is engraved with repeating ROLEX and the serial number at 6 o'clock. The case back is solid.
<gallery mode="packed" heights="180">
File:Ref_116613_detail_2.webp|alt=Detail view|Detail view
File:Ref_116613_detail.webp|alt=Detail view|Detail view
</gallery>
 
The middle case and its crown guards are steel. The bezel surround and Triplock winding crown are yellow gold. Rolex specifies gold-coated numerals and graduations on the ceramic insert. The sapphire crystal has a Cyclops lens over the date; the case has a screw-down back and a 300m water-resistance rating. [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5]


<span id="bracelets-end-links-clasps-and-packaging-notes"></span>
<span id="bracelets-end-links-clasps-and-packaging-notes"></span>
== Bracelets, end links, clasps, and packaging notes ==
== Bracelets, end links, clasps, and packaging notes ==


Bracelet ref. 93253 — a two-tone Oyster with solid gold center links throughout the run (earlier 16613 bracelets had used hollow gold centers on some examples). The Glidelock clasp provides roughly 20mm of tool-free micro-adjustment. The bracelet is unchanged across the full production run.
Rolex specifies a three-link Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock safety clasp and Glidelock adjustment. Antiquorum’s New York sale of 30 September 2015 identifies bracelet reference 97203 with Glidelock on a 116613, case J38N7707. Original-delivery fitment still needs to be checked against the individual watch’s documentation. [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5] [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613-lot-293-160 Antiquorum, New York, 30 September 2015, lot 160]
 
Boxes, cards and tags should be recorded for the individual watch. Antiquorum’s 2022 lot 310 included a box, guarantee card, booklets, seal and hang tag. [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-355-310 Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310]
 
<span id="market-and-collector-context"></span>
<span id="Market_and_collector_context"></span>
<span id="auction-record"></span>
== Auction record ==


<span id="production-volume-estimates"></span>
{| class="wikitable"
== Production volume estimates ==
! Sale !! Watch and catalogue dating !! Result or estimate
|-
| [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/24232/lot/6/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613ln-sold-20th-june-2012/ Bonhams, London, 21 June 2017, lot 6] || Black 116613LN, case G55****. The catalogue’s “sold 20th June 2012” refers to the watch’s earlier sale, not this auction. || £7,500, including premium
|-
| [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/25958/lot/164/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613-circa-2008/ Bonhams, London, 17 November 2020, lot 164] || Blue 116613, case V87****, catalogued circa 2008; see the dating qualification above. || £8,925, including premium
|-
| [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-355-310 Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310] || Blue 116613LB, case 8949J352. Described as new old stock and originally sold in December 2017. || CHF 18,750, reported result
|-
| [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-372-485 Antiquorum, Geneva, 10 November 2024, lot 485] || Blue 116613LB, case V820560, catalogued circa 2009. || CHF 10,000–15,000 estimate
|}


Industry estimates from the early 2010s put two-tone Submariner production at roughly 12,000 units per year. If those numbers held steady across the 116613's run, total production across both LB and LN would land somewhere around 130,000 units — a rough envelope, since Rolex does not publish production figures and the number circulates among dealers and collectors rather than from the factory.
Two catalogue measurements differ from Rolex’s 40mm specification: Bonhams’ 2017 lot lists 46mm, and Antiquorum’s 2024 lot lists 39mm. Neither catalogue explains the discrepancy. [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5]


<span id="market-and-collector-context"></span>
== Related references ==
== Market and collector context ==


Recently discontinued, with good secondary-market liquidity. The LB trades above the LN. The successor 126613LB retails at $18,900 USD, and the 116613 trades below that figure on the secondary market.
* [[Reference:116610LV|Submariner 116610LV]], green dial and bezel
* [[Reference:116610LN|Submariner 116610LN]], steel, black dial and bezel
* [[Reference:116618|Submariner 116618]], yellow gold
* [[Reference:116619LB|Submariner 116619LB]], white gold
* [[Reference:114060|Submariner 114060]], no date
* [[Reference:16610LV|Submariner 16610LV]], earlier steel model with a green aluminum bezel insert


The 126613 moved to a 41mm case, thinner lugs, and caliber 3235, which gives the 116613's blockier Super Case profile a distinct following among buyers who prefer the older geometry.
See also the [[Reference:submariner|Submariner family index]], [[Reference:Movements|movement reference]], [[Reference:Bracelets|bracelet and clasp guide]], and [[Reference:Serial-numbers|serial-number guide]].


== Sources ==
== Sources ==
[[File:Ref 116613 hero 2.jpg|thumb|right|250px|alt=Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613|Rolex Submariner Ref. 116613]]
* [https://www.fratellowatches.com/rolex-submariner-116613-versus-16613/ Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010]
* [https://monochrome-watches.com/rolex-submariner-history-part-2-the-55xx-1680references/ History of the Rolex Submariner - Part 2, The 55XX References and 1680 Date] — Tom Mulraney, Monochrome
* [https://www.rolex.com/watches/submariner/from-tool-watch-to-icon Rolex, Submariner history, 2020 entry]
* [https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/rolex-info/rolex-two-tone-submariner.html Bob's Watches two-tone Submariner history] — Bob's Watches editorial staff, Bob's Watches
* [https://content.rolex.com/dam/media/brochures/submariner/m116613lb-0005.pdf Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5]
* [https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/how-to-start-collecting-the-rolex-submariner The Rolex Submariner: A Complete Collector's Guide] — Stephen Pulvirent, Sotheby's
* [https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/watch-review/submariner-116613-sunburst-dial.html Bob’s Watches, 116613 sunburst-dial guide]
* [https://www.grayandsons.com/blog/rolex-submariner-date-history/ Gray & Sons Submariner Date history] — Gray & Sons editorial, Gray & Sons
* [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613-lot-293-160 Antiquorum, New York, 30 September 2015, lot 160]
* [https://professionalwatches.com/rolex-submariner-reference-guide/ Rolex Submariner Reference Guide] — Professional Watches editorial, Professional Watches
* [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613-oyster-perpetual-date-submariner-1000-ft-300-m-superlative-chronometer-officially-certified-lot-328-89 Antiquorum, Hong Kong, 10 May 2020, lot 89]
* [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-355-310 Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310]
* [https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/rolex-ref-116613lb-submariner-lot-372-485 Antiquorum, Geneva, 10 November 2024, lot 485]
* [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/24232/lot/6/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613ln-sold-20th-june-2012/ Bonhams, London, 21 June 2017, lot 6]
* [https://www.bonhams.com/auction/25958/lot/164/rolex-a-stainless-steel-and-gold-automatic-calendar-bracelet-watch-submariner-ref-116613-circa-2008/ Bonhams, London, 17 November 2020, lot 164]


[[Category:Submariner]]
[[Category:Submariner]]
[[Category:Working Draft]]

Latest revision as of 00:01, 29 September 2026


Submariner › 116613

Rolex 116613 Submariner
Rolex 116613 Submariner

The 116613 is the 40mm steel-and-yellow-gold Submariner Date introduced in 2009 and replaced by the 41mm 126613 in 2020. It uses caliber 3135 and a ceramic Cerachrom bezel insert. Rolex calls the steel-and-gold combination Rolesor. The 116613LN has a black dial and bezel; the blue 116613LB is often called the “Bluesy.” Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010

Core facts

Detail Specification
Reference 116613; LN (black) and LB (blue)
Family Submariner Date
Model run Introduced 2009; replaced in 2020
Movement Automatic caliber 3135, quick-set date, approximately 48-hour power reserve
Case 40mm; steel and 18ct yellow gold
Crystal Sapphire with Cyclops date lens
Water resistance 300m
Bezel Unidirectional; Cerachrom insert with gold-coated numerals and graduations
Lume Chromalight, blue emission
Bracelet and clasp Steel-and-gold Oyster; Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock adjustment
Predecessor / successor 16613 / 126613

The technical specifications above follow Rolex’s 116613LB brochure. Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5

Where it sits in the line

The 116613 replaced the aluminum-bezel 16613. Its wider lugs and crown guards give the case the blockier profile collectors call the “Super Case,” although the nominal diameter stayed at 40mm. The same generation included the steel 116610, yellow-gold 116618 and white-gold 116619LB. Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010

Two-tone Submariner lineage

Reference Place in the line Case diameter Bezel insert
16613 Preceding generation 40mm Aluminum
116613 Introduced 2009 40mm Cerachrom ceramic
126613 Introduced 2020 41mm Cerachrom ceramic

Rolex dates the 41mm redesign to 2020, when the Submariner Date adopted caliber 3235. Rolex also uses the Oystersteel name in its 116613 brochure. Rolex, Submariner history, 2020 entry Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5

What changed from the 16613

The main changes were the ceramic bezel insert, broader case profile and Glidelock bracelet adjustment. The 16613’s long production run complicates some comparisons, particularly bracelet and dial details. Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010

Production outline

Robert-Jan Broer’s January 2010 comparison dates the 116613’s introduction to Baselworld 2009. Bonhams later catalogued a blue example, case V87****, as circa 2008. That approximate lot date conflicts with the launch report and does not establish an earlier introduction. Fratello, “Rolex Submariner 116613 versus 16613,” 4 January 2010 Bonhams, London, 17 November 2020, lot 164

The 2009–2020 model run should be kept separate from dates on sales papers. Antiquorum’s 2022 lot 310, for example, records a December 2017 sale date; it does not give an exact manufacturing date. Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310

The blue dial evolution: flat to sunburst

Early blue dials have a relatively uniform finish. Later examples have a sunburst finish, with radial reflections that change as the watch tilts. Bob’s Watches dates the switch to 2013. That dealer chronology is useful as an approximate guide; a precise factory changeover or serial-number boundary remains unverified. Bob’s Watches, 116613 sunburst-dial guide

Movement notes

The 116613 uses caliber 3135 with a quick-set date and stop-seconds function. Rolex’s brochure specifies a blue Parachrom hairspring and approximately 48 hours of power reserve. The 126613 successor uses caliber 3235. Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5 Rolex, Submariner history, 2020 entry

Dial map

Diamond and serti dials

Antiquorum’s Hong Kong sale of 10 May 2020 included a black diamond-set dial on a 116613, case G778362, dated circa 2010. The catalogue calls it a “Serti” dial, a term used for gem-set dials. This identifies the configuration offered at auction; original factory delivery of that dial would need separate documentation. Antiquorum, Hong Kong, 10 May 2020, lot 89

Blue dial (LB)

The blue dial is paired with a blue ceramic bezel insert. Collectors distinguish the early flat finish from the later sunburst dial. Bob’s Watches, 116613 sunburst-dial guide

Black dial (LN)

The LN pairs a black dial with a black ceramic bezel insert. Bonhams’ 2017 lot 6 is a documented example, with case number G55****. Bonhams, London, 21 June 2017, lot 6

Case, bezel, crystal, and crown

  • Detail view
    Detail view
  • Detail view
    Detail view

The middle case and its crown guards are steel. The bezel surround and Triplock winding crown are yellow gold. Rolex specifies gold-coated numerals and graduations on the ceramic insert. The sapphire crystal has a Cyclops lens over the date; the case has a screw-down back and a 300m water-resistance rating. Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5

Bracelets, end links, clasps, and packaging notes

Rolex specifies a three-link Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock safety clasp and Glidelock adjustment. Antiquorum’s New York sale of 30 September 2015 identifies bracelet reference 97203 with Glidelock on a 116613, case J38N7707. Original-delivery fitment still needs to be checked against the individual watch’s documentation. Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5 Antiquorum, New York, 30 September 2015, lot 160

Boxes, cards and tags should be recorded for the individual watch. Antiquorum’s 2022 lot 310 included a box, guarantee card, booklets, seal and hang tag. Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310

Auction record

Sale Watch and catalogue dating Result or estimate
Bonhams, London, 21 June 2017, lot 6 Black 116613LN, case G55****. The catalogue’s “sold 20th June 2012” refers to the watch’s earlier sale, not this auction. £7,500, including premium
Bonhams, London, 17 November 2020, lot 164 Blue 116613, case V87****, catalogued circa 2008; see the dating qualification above. £8,925, including premium
Antiquorum, Geneva, 6 November 2022, lot 310 Blue 116613LB, case 8949J352. Described as new old stock and originally sold in December 2017. CHF 18,750, reported result
Antiquorum, Geneva, 10 November 2024, lot 485 Blue 116613LB, case V820560, catalogued circa 2009. CHF 10,000–15,000 estimate

Two catalogue measurements differ from Rolex’s 40mm specification: Bonhams’ 2017 lot lists 46mm, and Antiquorum’s 2024 lot lists 39mm. Neither catalogue explains the discrepancy. Rolex, 116613LB brochure, p. 5

Related references

See also the Submariner family index, movement reference, bracelet and clasp guide, and serial-number guide.

Sources

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