Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date vs Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy"

In-Depth Comparison

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date and the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Jaeger-LeCoultre and Rolex are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Master reference was introduced in 2018, while this Submariner reference debuted in 2010. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date beats the Jaeger-LeCoultre 899/1 caliber offering a 38-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 28 jewels. The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" is powered by the Rolex 3135 with a 48-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 31 jewels. The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" wins on power reserve with a 10-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date features a 39.0mm case at 8.8mm thick with a 46.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in 18K Rose Gold. The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" comes in at 40.0mm and 12.5mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Rolesor (Oystersteel and 18k Yellow Gold). The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 72g, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Fixed, polished bezel, while the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" features Sapphire with Cyclops lens crystal with a Unidirectional rotating, blue Cerachrom ceramic insert bezel. On the wrist, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date comes on a Brown alligator leather strap with Deployant clasp in 18K Rose Gold, while the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" is fitted with Oyster bracelet, Oystersteel and 18k Yellow Gold featuring Oysterlock folding clasp with Glidelock extension.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date is rated to 50m / 164ft and the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" to 300m / 984ft. For water sports and diving, the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date lists for $14,700 compared to $14,600 for the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy". On the secondary market, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date trades around $11,500 while the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" commands approximately $16,500. The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" carries a 13% market premium.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date and the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For diving and water sports, the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB "Bluesy" is the stronger choice. for dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Date is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.