The Rolex Submariner Date 116613 is the two-tone version of one of the most iconic dive watches ever made, pairing a 40mm Oystersteel case with 18ct yellow gold across the bezel, crown and Oyster bracelet centre links. Available in blue dial and bezel or black dial and bezel, it was produced from 2009 to 2020 before Rolex updated the line with the 126613.
The 116613 arrived in 2009 as a significant upgrade on the 16613 it replaced, with the most visible change being the switch from an aluminium bezel insert to a ceramic one. Ceramic holds its colour and resists scratching far better than aluminium, and on the blue variant in particular the depth of the gloss finish gives the watch a noticeably richer look.
The two colour options each have a distinct character: the 116613LB, known widely as the Bluesy, pairs blue dial and bezel for a cohesive, warm feel, while the 116613LN takes a blacker, more utilitarian approach. Both run the Calibre 3135 and are water resistant to 300 metres.
The 16613, which also appears in this collection, predates the ceramic bezel era and carries an aluminium insert with a slightly different texture and patina over time. Rolex discontinued it in 2009, so all examples are older pre-owned pieces. For some it is simply a stepping stone to the 116613, while for others the aluminium bezel and the specific aesthetic of that generation is what they are looking for. The broader Submariner Blue collection covers both references alongside other two-tone options if you want to compare.
The ceramic bezel on the 116613 is more resilient than aluminium but not indestructible, so check it carefully for chips particularly around the edge. The gold detailing on the case middle, crown and bracelet centre links is the other area worth inspecting closely. Daily wear leaves its mark on the centre links faster than on the steel links either side, and polishing can soften the brushed finish in a way that is difficult to reverse.
On the 16613, the aluminium bezel is worth examining carefully for fading or wear to the printed graduation. Some collectors consider natural fading part of the appeal on a watch of that age, but significant wear will affect the price.
For either reference, box and papers add confidence, and a complete set is worth seeking out where possible. If a specific variant or condition is what you are after, get in touch and we can help track it down.
Pre-owned examples of the 116613 typically sit between £10,000 and £15,000, with the Bluesy blue dial variant tending to command more than the black dial equivalent due to consistently stronger demand. Condition and the presence of box and papers are the other main price drivers.
The 16613 generally sits lower in price than the 116613, reflecting its age and the older aluminium bezel. Within the broader two-tone Submariner family, both references offer a more accessible route to a gold Submariner than the full yellow gold 116618. The full Submariner collection is worth browsing if you want to see the complete range of references available.
