Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual Date, Submariner, 200m=660ft, Ref. 1680, Case No. 2'229'494, Circa 1969

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. The inside caseback is stamped 1.69, indicating it was produced in the first quarter of 1969.