Rolex Submariner Date 116613LN and 116619LB Hands-On Review

      The Rolex Submariner Date is a watch that needs no introduction. Crafted in a variety of metals ranging from 904L stainless steel or gold Rolesor (a combination of 904L stainless steel and 18-karat gold), the Submariner Date is a robust, yet elegant tool watch. I recently had the pleasure of having a hands-on look with two gorgeous models. Without further ado let's discuss these timepieces. 

     The Rolex Submariner Date Model 116613LN is a beautiful two-tone diver's watch. Its black enamel is glossy and modern, yet timeless. It features 904L stainless steel and gold Rolesor in the center links of the bracelet. The 120-click Cerachrom bezel is surrounded with gold Rolesor and the graduated minute engravings are PVD filled with gold.




The Rolex Submariner Date Model 116619LB is truly an exquisite piece. Made fully from gold Rolesor for both durability and a bold luster, this Rolex Submariner Date is a shining star in a crowd of watches. It's blue sunburst dial changes with the lighting going from a dark navy to a bright ocean blue. The graduated minute engravings on the Cerachrom bezel on the 116619LB are also PVD filled with gold.



Over the past 66 years since Rolex released its first Submariner reference, the watch has greatly improved. The bracelets are significantly higher quality than previous models thanks to the change from hollow links to solid links and from the change of a stamped clasp to a milled clasp. The bezels have also improved in quality with the change from aluminum to an age proof ceramic Cerachrom bezel. Additionally, the Glidelock clasp has added another level of quality to the already legendary Submariner Date. It's adjustability and versatility make the Glidelock clasp extremely practical and dare I say fun to use. Both the 116613LN and 116619LB feature 120-click Cerachrom bezels that are extremely resistant to scratches, damage, and fading and are said to be able to stand the test of time. In both of the Submariner Date references, Rolex utilizes their caliber 3135, a Superlative Chronometer and COSC certified self-winding movement that features a date mechanism. The 3135 movement features great reliability with its anti-magnetic blue Parachrom hairspring and its certification to maintain accuracy within that of +2 or -2 seconds a day. The Rolex Submariner Date differs from the traditional Rolex Submariner models due to the use of the 3135 caliber as opposed to the 3130 caliber, which does not have a date mechanism. The Rolex Submariner Date also features a magnifying date cyclops that makes it easy to read the date from a distance. The Rolex Submariner Date models feature what is known as a Maxi dial that has larger hour markers than previous references.

 Overall, after having spent time with both of these watches, it was easy for me to see why the Submariner and Submariner Date models are considered some of the very best dive watches of all time. These iconic watches are so eye-catching and beautiful to look at and there is no doubt in my mind that people will definitely notice either of these pieces. No matter what model you choose, both Submariner Date references are built solid and feel like they could last a lifetime with proper care and servicing. The Rolex Submariner Date in two-tone Rolesor reference 116613LN retails for $13,400 and the Role Submariner Date in gold Rolesor reference 116619LB retails for $34,250. 

Thank you for reading and your continued support!

Noah Payne - Writer and Editor of Tick n' Sip

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