16613 or 116613

[BigDoug]

If I chose a Submariner-and I'm leaning that way some days, and a DJII others-what's the consensus, 116613 or 16613? My draws to the 16613:

1) I like the blue dial better.
2) I like the smaller case.
3) It's a classic.

The 116613:

1) Drastically better clasp
2) Scratch-resistant bezel
3) I can by brand new from my AD
4) My watch dealer ( not AD, but sells preowned Rolexes and sold me my 16013) says the new Sub is far superior, no question.

I have the money to buy brand new, or get the 16613 and mayne another watch. But I really want a new Rolex. I want the experience of buying from a AD. But if the 16613 is the better choice, I would go that route. What would you do?

[travisb]

I'd get whichever one you like more. Sounds like that is the 16613.
It's nice to buy new from an AD if the price is right and they have what you're looking for.
I actually prefer the 116613 for the reasons you mentioned. I love the bezel, bracelet, clasp, markers, dial etc.

[BigDoug]

Well, I want the superior watch. That clearly seems to be the 116613. Aesthetically, I like the 16613. It's tough.

[Cesium133]

Really, I consider these to be 2 totally different watches. In fact, all 6 digit Subs seem to be in their own category. Everything about them was upgraded (clasp, dial, bezel, bracelet, in-house movt). But then the design also changed, giving it a very different look and feel on the wrist. Personally, I like the design of the 16613 over the 116613.

I know the 116613 is technically engineered with more bells and whistles, but I'm not convinced they add anything to the functionality of the watch (except for the Maxi dial which allows for better visibality). In fact, one could say there is more risk and potential for problems because there are so many more parts. Ceramic bezel can be cracked and ball bearings under it can attract dirt. Clasp can break at soldered points. Not saying these problems will happen, just that there is a risk not associated with the 16613.

If you decide to go with the 16613, try to get a NOS or LNIB so it's like getting a new one. Good luck with your decision!

[Art 1]

I prefer the 16613.

[bigwatchman]

Classic Sub for me... changing a good thing only created a new variant. IMO, not the same watch at all... to each their own though...

[Ray6Chan8]

sounds like it's going to be the 16613 for you because you mentioned that you liked the blue better. congrats in advance

[Mystro]

What was the question???????

[kilyung]

Buy what YOU like, not what the AD or there's say you should like.

[Speed]

Originally Posted by BigDoug

I want the experience of buying from a AD. But if the 16613 is the better choice, I would go that route. What would you do?

What part of the AD "experience" do you feel you want to have?

Sounds like you want the classic style Sub.

[BoomerSooner]

Originally Posted by kilyung

buy what you like, not what the ad or there's say you should like.

x2

[gwozhog]

Big price difference between the 2. If money is not an issue buy the ceramic. If it is get the older one.

[sea-dweller]

Try them both on, as they are really different watches.

[Rolexman28]

what do you like ? If you like the smaller feeling case then go with the 16613 plus Im sure your getting the 16613 for at least 3K less than the 116613 .......Personally I LOVE the weight and feel of the new 116613 and could never go back

[RRGHOST1]

Much prefer the new Ceramic blue,so its the 116613LB for me.

[subdatefan]

116613 for me

[BigDoug]

Originally Posted by Speed

What part of the AD "experience" do you feel you want to have?

Sounds like you want the classic style Sub.

A brand new box, I'm the only owner, all boxes and paperwork. To a post below, money isn't and issue. I like smaller watches, but I also like solid center links. I'll try the Sub-c on and see if it "clicks". If not I'll try the 16613. I commented about my watch dealer's opinion because he said the Sub-c is a watch build to last a lifetime and still look great. He says older subs really show thier age as far as bezel scratches and band stretch. I like the size and color of the 16613, but not at the expense of a far more durable watch that will age better. I see some flaws in the upgrades (color, case/bezel proportions) but my thought is are these a fair trade-off if the ceramic version is upgraded in a way that adresses key issues.

[p_mcgee]

I prefer the classic style & I've owned both the Sub & Sub-C.

[roadie1]

I've owned both and prefer the blue SubC.

[BigDoug]

The last two post basically sum it up...split mostly down the middle. I hope this is one of those situations where you can't go wrong with either. I'm leaning towards the sub c.

[AK797]

Id buy the black ceramic TT first then the 16613 bluesy.

[Piloto]

Originally Posted by Cesium133

Really, I consider these to be 2 totally different watches. In fact, all 6 digit Subs seem to be in their own category. Everything about them was upgraded (clasp, dial, bezel, bracelet, in-house movt). But then the design also changed, giving it a very different look and feel on the wrist. Personally, I like the design of the 16613 over the 116613.

+1.

The new version is great, but just doesn't do it for me.

[robie]

i like the 16613,this deep royal blue is amazing.

[gr33n]

Some do like the finer and slimmer 16613, some the more "present" and shinier 116613.. I do not know myself, i would have prefered the new features (new bracelet) BUT slimmer case and crown guards.
I chose the 16610lv, because of the slim lugs and maxi dial. I sometimes cry in front of a beautiful 116619, so who knows..
Deep inside you, as the movement, waterproofness is identical, which one does sing at you, which one make your heart beat? That is the only question. Do not rely on a precise feature (bracelet, ceramic) as they do not improve (or very slightly) a watch which was already perfect.Only the shape and color need to be considered: only aesthetics.
Take your time, you will change your mind often before to find THE ONE!
Take us informed, and post photos: we are hungry!

[rmpickard]

I have both of these watches and find them very different. I'm not sure the pro's of one of them win out over the other. I do know the original blue face on the 16613 is an exceptionally beautiful color.
Forced to pick one I think the 16613 would win out, assuming you can get a mint example.

[BigDoug]

Originally Posted by rmpickard

I have both of these watches and find them very different. I'm not sure the pro's of one of them win out over the other. I do know the original blue face on the 16613 is an exceptionally beautiful color.
Forced to pick one I think the 16613 would win out, assuming you can get a mint example.

Well said. 16613 would have to be mint to really influence me. Do you all buy into the fact that a a 116613 will still look mint 10 years from now, as opposed to the 16613 which shows a lot of bezel scratches. If I had a non mint 16613 or brand new 116613 in front of me-I think I know which one will draw my attention. But if the non mint 16613 still catches my eye...then my heart has spoke.

[Rockslide]

Does the bracelet on 116613 fit on the 16613? If so will it be possible to buy one from an AD?

[cruvon]

The new 116613 now has the royal blue dial so is that one if had to choose!

[Racerdj]

Originally Posted by kilyung

buy what you like, not what the ad or there's say you should like.

+1 and I would wait until you see the starburst dial.

[Sperry]

I'm not ready for the Supercase. Even a Supercased 34mm Airking wears bigger than a brushed-lugs 16000 36mm Datejust.