THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1680
YEAR: 1977
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
The Rolex Submariner 1680 has long been held in high regard amongst aficionados and collectors worldwide, The 1680 was, after all, the first of the Submariners to incorporate a date function, a simple yet groundbreaking feature. This singular attribute effectively bridged the gap between the practicality of a tool watch and the prestige of a status symbol.
From its inception in 1967 until 1976/77, these timepieces were affectionately known as the 'Red Subs,' a nod to the distinctive red lettering on their dials. Six dial configurations emerged during this period, further diversifying the collection. Between 1977 and 1979, the 1680 evolved once again, presenting white text across three different dial variants known as the MK1/2 and 3 white.
The present example is the MK1 variant from 1977 and a superb example. The dial and hands have aged to a wonderful creamy hue, whilst the case remains nice and sharp. The original silver date wheel is still in place. The MK3 bezel has aged to a striking petrol-blue colour. The original 93150 bracelet, coded B, dates back to 1977.
The watch runs superbly at +3 s/d, 275 amps, with a 0.4 ms beat error, ready for its next journey.