Rolex 16613 Black Submariner - The History and Appeal of An Iconic Dive Watch

The History of the Rolex Submariner 16613

The Rolex 16613 black Submariner is one of the most iconic Rolex sport watch models. First introduced in 1988, the 16613 replaced the previous 5-digit Submariner model, ushering in a new era of 6-digit Rolex reference numbers.

Evolution of the Submariner Design

The Submariner was Rolex’s very first dive watch, with the inaugural reference 6204 being released all the way back in 1953. Over the next few decades, Rolex continued to refine and improve the Submariner's design - increasing its water resistance, upgrading the movement, and optimizing its overall robustness and reliability.

By the late 1980s, the Submariner had cemented its place as Rolex’s most popular sports watch. With the 16613, Rolex took the opportunity to bring the Submariner design completely up-to-date while linking back to its roots with the model name.

Enhanced Features of the 16613

• Increased case diameter to 40mm
• Upgraded water resistance to 300 meters
• Sapphire crystal to improve scratch resistance
• Unidirectional rotating bezel with engraved markers
• Added a date complication at 3 o’clock
• Fitted a new Caliber 3135 movement

These upgrades ensured that the Rolex 16613 black Submariner could withstand even more demanding conditions while retaining the elegant silhouette that the Submariner range was known for.

The Different Versions of the 16613

Over its impressive 25 year production run, Rolex offered the 16613 Submariner in several variations. The main differences came down to materials, dials, and bezel colors.

Steel or Gold

The reference 16613 denotes a Rolesor model - combining stainless steel and 18k gold for a striking two-tone aesthetic. The Submariner was also available in solid stainless steel (16610) or solid 18k gold (16618) if customers preferred.

Black or Blue Dials

Rolex manufactured both black and blue dial versions of the 16613. While the black dial models use a classic monochrome look, the blue “Sunburst” dials add an extra pop of color.

Blue, Red, Green, or Black Bezels

The rotating timing bezel surrounding the 16613’s dial came in a choice of colors - with blue, red, green, and black options. Each provided a slightly different overall visual effect.

This broad range of configurations meant there was a 16613 to suit pretty much any buyer’s preferences - while still retaining the rugged functionality of Rolex’s legendary dive watch.

Collectability and Value Preposition

Given its incredible 25 year lifespan and multitude of variants, the Rolex 16613 black Submariner possesses quite an intriguing collectability profile nowadays.

Discontinued Iconic Model

With the reference 16613 being discontinued in 2010 in favor of the next-generation 116613, the 16613 occupies a very interesting position. It provides most of the key traits of the contemporary Submariner models - while also being clearly identifiable as a previous generation.

Complex Catalog of Variants

The long production period coupled with the myriad of color combinations make cataloging and collecting 16613 models a complex affair. Enthusiasts can spend many years tracking down all the possible dial, bezel, and metal combinations if they wish.

Strong Resale Value Prospects

Despite now being a discontinued model, 16613 Submariners still command very competitive resale values. As a luxury steel sports Rolex with the added collectability factor, they represent an intriguing value proposition in the secondary market.

In particular, special configurations like the Rolex 16613 black Submariner remain highly sought-after. This classic color combination on an iconic Rolex model helps ensure healthy ongoing demand from collectors and enthusiasts.

The Legacy and Allure of Rolex Dive Watches

The introduction of the reference 16613 in 1988 marked another key evolution in Rolex’s prestigious range of dive watches. While built with state-of-the-art (for the time) technology and materials, it remained faithful to the Submariner’s core design aesthetics.

Quintessential Rolex Appeal

That potent blend of contemporary engineering and classic styling gives the 16613 an incredibly well-balanced charm. It provides the perfect distillation of Rolex’s unique approach - melding form and function into a practical yet evocative item.

Monumental Part of Rolex’s Story

The 25 year journey of the reference 16613 also represents a significant chapter in Rolex’s overall corporate story. That exceptionally long production run itself highlights just how popular and successful the 16613 was.

In that sense, owning a vintage Rolex 16613 black Submariner gives you a very tangible connection to one of Rolex’s most prominent time periods. From new movements to shifting trends - the 16613 bore witness to tremendous change, evolution and achievement at Rolex.

Owning a Slice of History

As a coveted Oyster Perpetual model from Rolex’s past, the reference 16613 Submariner is more than just a fine timepiece. Each individual watch has its own story to tell, having accompanied a succession of owners on their own travels through life.

That rich blend of personal experiences and recollections over the years is what gives pre-owned luxury watches like the 16613 such an emotive allure as a collectable item. Far more than just a pretty accessory - but instead a means of owning your very own slice of history.