Rolex Submariner Date 116613LN Discontinued
About This Watch
The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LN was the two-tone Rolesor Submariner that bridged the gap between the all-steel and all-gold models during the 40mm era. The combination of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold with a black Cerachrom ceramic bezel gave this watch a classic luxury appearance. The caliber 3135 inside was Rolex's workhorse automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, and it earned a reputation for extraordinary reliability over its decades-long production run. The Glidelock extension system on the two-tone Oyster bracelet provided toolless adjustment for daily comfort or wear over a wetsuit. At 40mm, this was the last generation of the two-tone Submariner in the smaller case size before the increase to 41mm with the 126613 series. The gold center links, crown, and crown guards added warmth to the sporty design without overpowering it. Since discontinuation, the 116613LN has maintained solid values on the secondary market. It appeals to collectors who appreciate the combination of precious metal luxury and professional dive capability in the classic 40mm case proportions that many enthusiasts consider the ideal Submariner size.
In-Depth Review
# The Submariner Date 116613LN: A Discontinued Two-Tone Icon
When Rolex introduced the Submariner Date reference 116613LN in 2010, it represented a refinement of one of horology's most enduring designs. The marriage of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold—Rolex's proprietary Rolesor construction—created a watch that balanced sportiness with understated luxury. The Cerachrom ceramic bezel insert, a material innovation that resists fading and scratching far better than earlier aluminum versions, demonstrated Rolex's commitment to incremental improvement rather than radical reinvention. Paired with the proven Rolex 3135 caliber, reliable across thousands of units and offering a respectable 48-hour power reserve, this watch delivered legitimate professional dive credentials alongside formal wearability.
The 116613LN found its audience among collectors seeking a bridge between pure tool watches and precious metal timepieces. Its 40mm case diameter and 12.5mm thickness struck a practical proportion, while the two-tone bracelet elevated it beyond the working diver aesthetic. This watch appealed equally to the executive desk and the tropical resort, making it ideal for professionals who wanted equipment-grade durability without sacrificing elegance.
Discontinued now, the 116613LN competes in a crowded segment of vintage and current luxury sports watches. The Tudor Black Bay, priced significantly lower around $4,000-$5,000, offers comparable depth ratings and vintage charm. The Omega Seamaster Professional, typically $5,500-$6,500, represents another formidable alternative. The Rolex's two-tone construction and storied heritage command its $15,000 market premium, though whether that premium justifies the position remains a conversation among collectors.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Rolex 3135 |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 31 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 40.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Rolesor (Oystersteel and 18k Yellow Gold) |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Bezel | Unidirectional rotating, Cerachrom ceramic insert |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Lug Width | 20mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 48.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 300m / 984ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster bracelet, Oystersteel and 18k Yellow Gold |
| Clasp | Oysterlock folding clasp with Glidelock extension |
| Weight | 170g |
| Complications |