Introduction
Debuting in 1953 and released to the public the following year, the Rolex Submariner has undoubtedly become one of the most iconic timepieces of all time thanks to its legendary status as Rolex's flagship dive watch. Used extensively by the British Royal Navy and professional diving operations like COMEX, the Submariner set the bar for all dive watches to follow. Featuring a genuinely timeless design that has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history, this Rolex has become the archetypal sports watch. With very few large-scale aesthetic upgrades made to it over the years except for timely advancements like introducing a date function to the collection in the late '60s, and its modern cerachrom bezels, the Submariner is seen as the prototypical dive watch thanks to its consistency. The Submariner has earned its status as a legendary watch, with it today remaining as one of the most sought-after timepieces around.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Booklets (No Guarantee Paper)
Est. value range
$7,000 – $9,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
16613LB
Bracelet
Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold Oyster bracelet
Year
2003
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel and 18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch, box and booklets
Dial Color
Blue Tritium Dial
THE DIAL
Affectionately known as the "Bluesy," the ref. 16613LB that we have here features a blue aluminum bezel insert alongside a matching blue dial that are punctuated with gold inscriptions, hour markers and hands - which matches the 18kt yellow gold in its bi-metal construction. PLEASE NOTE: The watch dates to 2003, which means it should have been born with a "SWISS MADE" luminova dial. For some reason the original dial was swapped out and replaced with an earlier "SWISS T 25" dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
A late neo-vintage timepiece, this ref. 16613 from 2003 features solid endlinks and is presented in wonderful condition throughout, indicating careful ownership over the years.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition, showing full symmetrical lugs and only light surface wear. Blue dial is in near-mint condition and has matching hands that are both an off-white tone. PLEASE NOTE: The watch was produced in 2003 and should be fitted with a "SWISS MADE" luminova dial, but for some reason the original dial was removed and replaced with its current "SWISS T 25" dial, which is of an earlier era. Please bid accordingly. The bracelet has 12 full links, 1 half link. Band shows little to no stretch.
Our Perspective
A modern classic, the Bluesy is rich in character thanks to its iconic aesthetic that blends the Rolex Submariner's rugged design with 18kt yellow gold and its traditional stainless steel.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
