1680 MK1 Submariner ”White”

The Rolex Submariner, reference 1680 was the first Submariner ever to sport a date function. A convenient complication added to the Submariner line of dive watches and one that totally changed the watch when compared to the 1680’s predecessor, the 5513 ‘no date’ Submariner. The 5513 had a sleek, domed plexiglass crystal, but the 1680 sports a thick and fairly high plexi crystal with an added cyclops to enhance the date function. These crystals are known as ‘Top Hat’ crystals and protrude around 3mm above the case and bezel, giving the watch a very unique, yet very recognizable look.

Our 1680 Rolex Submariner Date sports that same and original, ‘Top Hat’ Rolex crystal with part no. 25-127. This entire Submariner is in a very nice condition, but the thing that pops out the most is that incredible warm and very attractive, custard coloured patina on the indices and inside the hands. Notice that all Tritium has the same colour and texture, and is the sort of patina that is in high demand, but is becoming very hard to find within todays Rolex Submariner 1680 offerings. As you will probably know, the vast majority of a vintage watch’s value is dependent on its dial, and specifically the rarity and overall condition. We feel that this is one of the best dials we have encountered on a 1680 in a while and one that truly needs to be seen with your own two eyes as the studio photography tends to lighten the patina – in real life it’s even more dark, warm and attractive! This vintage Rolex Submariner is also known as a MK1 example – Meaning it was the first 1680 Submariner with all white printed text on the dial, often nicknamed ”White” by collectors. This 5 mil serial Submariner was the first one to be introduced to the market after Rolex ceased production of the watch we now know as the ”Red Submariner” Our 1680 MK1 Submariner ”White” is a very interesting watch in respect to Rolex history, watch collecting in general and value appreciation for the future.

As with 95% of all 1680’s available, this one is also fitted to a correct, but later period 93150 Oyster bracelet with flip lock clasp. The black insert is a Rolex Service insert presumably from the 1990’s and the stainless steel case remains in a good and fair condition with equal shaped lugs and a well shaped case. Yes it was polished once or twice, but as you probably know by now we like to offer original vintage cases and rather have them a bit polished instead of re-cut. The entire 1575 movement was fully serviced by our watchmakers, but we stayed away from any polishing. This 1680 MK1 Submariner ”White” will be sold with a 24 month warranty.

reference: 1680
case number: 54XXXXX
year of production: 1978
case diameter: 40mm
movement: automatic, caliber 1575
box and papers: no

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