Submariner Black, What Comes Next?

Rolex's Black Submariner is truly a classic. It is sporty and robust and even has a price advantage, Making it a model with many strengths. This is why it is the most popular choice for those new to Rolex. However, Every watch enthusiast goes through a phase. Have you heard of the term "Gichubyung"? It refers to the tendency to look for another watch because one is not satisfied with just one. After the Submariner Black, Opinions tend to diverge depending on personal taste. The traditional Green Submariner? The ultimate Rolex, Daytona? The GMT-Master II with its striking color combinations? Among the many options, Some are drawn to a more flamboyant style. Today's watch story is for those people, Focusing on the so-called "Cheongkom, " the Submariner Ref. 116613LB.

The Intersection Between Modern and Retro

ⓒ Classic390

Now commonly referred to as the "Old Cheongkom, " the Submariner Ref. 116613LB was released in 2009 as the successor to the 16613LB. For over a decade, It has captivated users with its athletic yet luxurious appeal and somewhat retro vibe. When the 116613LB was first introduced, Its most notable features were the maxi case, The color matching of the dial and bezel, And a certain sense of imbalance. Although the aesthetically more refined successor, The 126613LB, Is available in stores, There is a reason why this "Old Cheongkom" feels more welcoming despite its slight shortcomings. In the process of modernizing the Submariner, It represents the stage just before achieving overall balance and is a product that satisfies both sellers and buyers in the secondary market with reasonable prices and little price fluctuation. Now is the time to pay attention to this model, Which combines modern performance with a retro touch.

Submariner Date 116613LB

40mm, Blue, Oyster

Submariner Date 126613LB

41mm, Royal Blue, Oyster

The History of the Submariner Rolesor Model

The blue two-tone (Rolesor) Submariner is a watch for those seeking the perfect balance between sportiness and glamour. The blue color, Which has been part of the Rolesor lineup since the beginning, Celebrated its 25th anniversary at the time of the Ref. 116613LB's release. As the Submariner moved to a six-digit reference, It was time for this conservative diver's watch to undergo significant changes. The movement, Bezel, Markers, Luminous material, And case were all revamped, Making headlines in the watch market. The technically modernized Rolesor Submariner also aimed to present something new in terms of design.

ⓒ Watchclub

Produced from 2009 to 2020, The Ref. 116613LB was equipped with the maxi case, First used in the GMT-Master II in 2005. The maxi case is characterized by its substantial presence, In line with the trend for larger watches. The solid feel provided by the wider lugs and thicker crown guards, Compared to its predecessor and successor, Blends with the gloss of the blue Cerachrom bezel and dial, Adding a unique touch to the watch. It leaves a strong and dynamic first impression.

VIVER Index / Based on Unworn New Product

As mentioned earlier, The Ref. 116613LB introduced new technologies from Rolex, Such as the Glidelock clasp for the best diving experience, Chromalight luminous technology, And solid end links, Further strengthening its status as the quintessential diving watch. The latest model currently in production, Ref. 126613LB, Has no significant differences except for the upgraded movement, So there are no major changes in the resale market price or demand.

Even though most available pieces are pre-owned, The resale price has remained stable over the past year and a half, Making it a good model for both selling and buying. The Cal. 3135 movement is easier to service and maintain than its successor and is highly durable, So you can wear it for a long time without worry.

Changes in the Dial, From Matte Blue to
Sunburst Dial

From the left, Sunburst Dial, Matte Dial / ⓒ Bobswatches

The blue dial, Which adds a retro feel to the Ref. 116613, Underwent significant changes during its long production period.
Models produced from 2009 to 2013 had a matte dial, While those produced from 2013 until discontinuation featured a sunburst dial. The matte dial, Which was not present in previous models, Was created to harmonize with the tone of the ceramic bezel. It is the same dial used in the White Gold Submariner Ref. 116619 (nicknamed Smurf) released in 2008 and the Yellow Gold Submariner Ref. 116618, So users often refer to it as the "Smurf" dial.

The sunburst dial introduced later actually inherited the dial from the previous generation, Ref. 16613LB. Since its discontinuation in 2020, The next model, Ref. 126613LB, Also uses the sunburst dial. When you think of "Cheongkom, " it is actually the sunburst dial that comes to mind. The lines and fine texture radiating from the center of the dial reflect light, Adding depth. It is also the last Rolesor Submariner model where all the text is printed in gold.

Submariner Date 116618LB

40mm, Blue, Oyster

Submariner Date 116619LB

40mm, Blue, Oyster

How Long Will the Retro Trend Last?

Was it because the retro look was not in fashion at the time of production? During its heyday, The sunburst dial was more in demand than the matte dial. You can tell just by looking at the production period. However, Today's market is different. The undeniable character of the matte dial is attracting collectors, And owners are entering the secondary market. It has already been 14 years since the release of the Ref. 116613LB. Although this is not a short period, It will take more time for it to be considered a true vintage Rolex. When the next Rolesor Submariner is released in the future, It will finally have the qualities of a true vintage Submariner.