Rolex Submariner Date

Why We Love It Once the quintessential sports watch, the Rolex Submariner has transcended its own history to be widely regarded as the most popular luxury watch in the world. But before the maxi-case madness of the mid 2000's brought the Submariner more solidly into the realm of a widespread status symbol, Subs were tool watches first. This particular example, a Reference 16800 straddles a transitional period in the Submariner's history with a rugged elegance. Its once glossy dial has developed a rich character and depth of texture typically seen on much older- and much more expensive- references. The character-heavy dial is punctuated by Tritium-filled white gold indices which have developed a creamy patination up there with the best of them. With prices of 551's and 1680s continuing to explode, collectors are beginning to turn an eye to the 'Neo-Vintage' references which offer tremendous value - and which still posses characteristics of vintage watches that will also age and develop unique charm with age. The Story The Reference 1680, released in 1966, deviated from previous iterations of the Submariner--like the beloved Ref. 5513--by including a date window. This change was remarkably divisive because, according the diehards, if you need a date on your dive watch, you're kind of screwed. Despite the divided opinions on the Ref. 1680, from a non-purist's standpoint, it ticks all the boxes for a tool watch. A sturdy stainless steel case? Check. Robust movement that is dust-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof? Check, check, and check. The Ref. 16800, successor to the Ref.1680, is viewed as a transitional model because it's the first Submariner reference to have a sapphire crystal. Another slightly polarizing change is the inclusion of white gold surrounds to the hour plots. It was also fitted with a uni-directional ratcheting bezel, a glossy (rather than matte) dial, a high-beat Rolex Cal. 3035 movement, and a quick-set date function.