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Lot Essay
Rolex's first Submariner with date, the reference 1680, was introduced in 1968 with much success. Collectors will make a distinction between a reference 1680 with red writing on the dial and a reference 1680 with all-white writing. Rolex changed to the all-white print dial in 1976/77, marking the end of red writing on the Submariner. The present watch dates to 1969 and is part of the early 1680 examples with the recognizable and attractive red writing on its dial.
Nicknamed “Red-Sub” by Rolex collectors, the timepiece features attractive luminous accents that have aged to a uniform color. Adding to the appeal of the wristwatch, the color of the dial has changed to a dark brown color and is allied to a well-preserved stainless steel case with strong proportions, featuring clear reference and serial numbers.
Furthermore, this example is attributed to the rare 'meters first Mark II dial'. Brown dial Submariners such as the present watch are highly sought after, especially rare and appearing usually only in case numbers in the 2.2-2.4M serial range.
For a detailed description and illustrations of other Submariner Date reference 1680 watches see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani and Lele Ravagnani, pp. 90-91.
Nicknamed “Red-Sub” by Rolex collectors, the timepiece features attractive luminous accents that have aged to a uniform color. Adding to the appeal of the wristwatch, the color of the dial has changed to a dark brown color and is allied to a well-preserved stainless steel case with strong proportions, featuring clear reference and serial numbers.
Furthermore, this example is attributed to the rare 'meters first Mark II dial'. Brown dial Submariners such as the present watch are highly sought after, especially rare and appearing usually only in case numbers in the 2.2-2.4M serial range.
For a detailed description and illustrations of other Submariner Date reference 1680 watches see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani and Lele Ravagnani, pp. 90-91.