| Brand | Rolex |
|---|---|
| Model | |
| Reference | 1680 |
| Year of production (circa) | 1978 |
| Material | Steel |
| Crystal | Acrylic |
| Dial color | Black |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Bracelet/strap: | Steel |
| Lug Width | 20 mm |
| Set Content | Original box & papers |
Sports & Tool, Vintage Watches
Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 B+P
The Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 is truly an important reference in the Rolex Submariner collection. The first time the Ref. 1680 was produced was in the late 1960s and continued until the end of the 1970s. This was the first Submariner with a date function. It also marked the time when the Submariner was still a true tool watch for diving but began transitioning into a true status symbol. This was also the first Submariner model where Rolex started using precious metals like yellow gold.
There is a wide range of Ref. 1680 models, with some quite rare versions, such as the red-printed “Submariner” text and the later models with full white-printed text. That being said, the Rolex 1680 is a true historical piece and a gem in the world of watches.
The one we have here is from 1978. As this is a later model in the 1680 series, we see the printed text on the dial in full white, along with a Maxi Mark 1 dial. This watch is a true stunner—the case and bracelet are in top condition, and the watch even comes with its original box and papers from 1978. It’s also worth mentioning that the hands of the watch were updated with a newer set. The watch is paired with the Caliber 1570, as the 1680 should always be. The 15xx movement series is the first family of mechanisms Rolex created entirely in-house.
So, if you’re looking for a vintage Rolex Submariner, this Ref. 1680 is perfect
€ 17.250
Availability: In stock
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Details
Backstory
Shipping
Brand
Rolex
Movement
Automatic
Model
Submariner
Diameter
40 mm
Reference
1680
Bracelet/strap:
Steel
Year of production (circa)
1978
Lug Width
20 mm
Material
Steel
Set Content
Original box & papers
Crystal
Acrylic
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Dial color
Black
Oh, the mighty Submariner! Could this be the most desired watch ever made?
The Sub certainly has the heritage to go with its iconic status. It was one of those very early dive watches from the era when commercial and leisure diving exploded. The Ref. 6204 was introduced in 1954 (after having been completed in 1953), shortly after the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. It followed the, now familiar, template for a modern dive watch with its rotatable bezel surrounding the dial and crystal.
The Submariner has been in continuous production ever since and saw many updates along the way. Still, the modern Submariner looks eerily similar to its 1953 predecessor, proving that this is one of the most timeless and iconic watch designs out there. One of the most copied as well.
The early Submariners have become extremely collectible. Good examples are exceedingly rare and fetch astronomical prices. A very popular variant is the Ref. 5513, which was made from 1962 until about 1988. It is a true vintage Sub with its acrylic crystal and aluminum bezel inlay. Although variants with applied indices can be found in its later years, the archetypal 5513 features Tritium painted markers. Rare dial variations such as gilt and explorer dials are particularly collectible.
When hunting for a Sub, you will have to make one crucial decision: date or no date? Some people prefer the clean, symmetrical look of a no-date Sub. Others like the date and cyclops on the crystal. While the aforementioned Ref. 5513 is a no-date version, cyclops-loving collectors should be looking at a Ref. 1680 (introduced in 1967) and its successors.
1988 Saw the introduction of the first “modern” Rolex Submariner. Among the updates was a sapphire crystal, which completely changes the feel of the watch, but also its everyday toughness. The Ref. 14060 (no-date) and 16610 (date) are among the most popular Subs today. They combine the ruggedness of a modern Rolex with the classical looks of a slim case and aluminum bezel insert, which were lost in later ceramic Subs.
The Rolex Submariner is arguably the perfect watch. A timeless design combined with great engineering. Versatile aesthetics and rugged build. And it was not exactly hurt by being James Bond’s watch of choice in Dr. No, 1962.
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