Introductory Summary
The Rolex Submariner reference 16613 is often referred to as 16613LN (because LN is Rolex's modern model number code for Black bezel & dial) with black dial and bezel is a two-tone dive watch produced throughout the late 20th century as part of the five-digit Submariner Date generation. Combining stainless steel and 18ct yellow gold, it offers a more restrained expression of the Rolesor Submariner, balancing professional dive-watch functionality with subtle luxury cues.
Core Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Collection: Submariner
- Reference: 16613 (often referred to as 16613LN)
- Production Start: 1988
- Production End: 2009
- Status: Discontinued
- Case Size: 40mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel & 18ct Yellow Gold
- Bezel: Black Aluminium, Unidirectional
- Dial: Black
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Bracelet/Strap: Oyster Bracelet
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3135
- Power Reserve: 48 Hours
- Water Resistance: 300m / 1,000ft
Reference Profile
The 16613 black sits within Rolex’s Rolesor Submariner lineup alongside the more visually expressive blue variant. It features classic 40mm proportions, slim lugs, drilled lugs, a sapphire crystal, and an aluminium unidirectional bezel, reflecting Rolex’s late-20th-century Submariner design before the transition to ceramic bezels and heavier case architecture.
Movement Overview
The watch is powered by the Rolex calibre 3135, an automatic movement that underpinned Rolex’s date-equipped professional models for decades. It offers approximately 48 hours of power reserve, includes a quickset date function, and is widely respected for its durability, accuracy, and long-term serviceability.
Functions & Complications
The 16613 black displays hours, minutes, and central seconds, with a date aperture at 3 o’clock magnified by a Cyclops lens. It features a unidirectional aluminium dive bezel for elapsed time measurement, a screw-down Triplock crown, water resistance rated to 300 metres, and is fitted to a Rolesor Oyster bracelet combining stainless steel outer links with yellow gold centre links and a folding clasp.
Buyer Considerations
This reference appeals to buyers seeking a Submariner with a versatile, understated aesthetic that transitions easily between sport and dress contexts. Gold centre links are more prone to visible wear than steel, making condition and polishing history important considerations, while market value is influenced by originality, overall preservation, and completeness.
Comparisons & Aternatives
The 16613 black is often compared to the all-steel 16610, which offers a more utilitarian appearance, and to the blue 16613, which carries a stronger luxury identity. Later ceramic two-tone models such as the 116613LN provide a more modern alternative, while competitors like the Omega Seamaster Professional offer different design philosophies within the two-tone dive watch segment.
