Rolex 1680 Red Submariner New Acquisition
Vintage

Rolex 1680 Red Submariner New Acquisition

By Hulk · Feb 19, 2018 · 22 replies
Hulk
WPS member · Rolex forum
22 replies4725 views13 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

Hulk's five-year quest for the perfect Rolex 1680 Red Submariner culminates in a stunning acquisition, detailed in this post. His meticulous criteria, from serial number matching his birth year to an unpolished case and full original set, offer invaluable insights for vintage Rolex collectors. This article celebrates the thrill of the hunt and the deep personal connection to a grail watch.

22 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →
Just got my "new" unpolished Rolex 1680 red submariner.  It was a long time coming.  I've been looking for the right one for the last 5 years.  Firstly I wanted a 5513, then I preferred the 5512 but eventually came around to the 1680 model.

The search took so long as I wanted a watch with a number of different characteristics, trying to find one with all was difficult.  I looked for one with a serial number which roughly around the year I was born according to the lists out there.  I also wanted the date on the inside back case to match the year too, even better if the quarter reference did too.  The watch had to be all original from that period too, the dial - mark IV, bracelet 9315; I didn't want a "frankensteined" watch.  I wanted as much a full set as possible, unpolished too and lastly a nice patina.  So hence the long wait for the right model to come along.  I didn't get the plexiglass polished as I thought it would ruin the look, I've seen others unpolished but with the glass perfect.

So its a full set - triplock, crown hangtag, Your Rolex 579.02, Wave submariner booklet 375-35-31, plastic wallet 100.00.41, 200m anchor, warranty translation paper 571.01, calendar card, Garantie cert, red seal frog foot hangtag, 1680 sticker, Rolex box and outer seahorse box 10.00.01.

It wears well compared to my other watches and I'm definitely glad I got it.  The watch will be a keeper to pass on to my youngest son in the future. 

I will change the strap this week to a rubber strap as the 9315 feels a bit delicate.  When I look back at the queries to sellers over the 5 years and what the watches went for  back then and the price now, there has been a considerable increase since then, I suppose like a lot of Swiss watches over the last 10 years, especially rolex.

Hope you like it.

Cheers
Steve




























About the Rolex Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680

The Rolex Submariner reference 1680 is notable as the first Submariner model to feature a date complication, marking a significant evolution for the line. Introduced in the late 1960s, it bridged the gap between the earlier no-date Submariners and later iterations, offering enhanced functionality while retaining the robust characteristics of the professional tool watch. This reference is distinguished by its single cyclops date magnifier on the crystal, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent Rolex models.

This reference typically features a 40mm steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 1575 movement. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The crystal is acrylic, commonly referred to as Plexiglas, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. Water resistance for the 1680 is rated at 200 meters, consistent with its design as a reliable underwater instrument.

For collectors, the reference 1680 is highly sought after, particularly early examples with "Red Submariner" dials where the word "Submariner" is printed in red. These variants represent a distinct period in Rolex's production history and are prized for their rarity and aesthetic appeal. The 1680 appeals to those who appreciate the blend of historical significance, functional design, and the tangible qualities of vintage Rolex manufacturing.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal.1575
Case
steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic (Plexiglas)

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
BA
Baron - Mr Red
Feb 19, 2018

......Patience really paid off. Wear it in teh best of health

JT
JToddH
Feb 19, 2018

Excellent documentation! Simply a stunning set!

PR
Prodyutb
Feb 19, 2018

What a piece and I am sure worth all the wait. Really top class condition. Enjoy in the best of health.

BI
Bill
Feb 19, 2018

It may be with trying a nato strap before a rubber one. Also if you are concerned about the 9315 bracelet you can easily put a thinker 93150 bracelet which feels really good and fits the watch perfectly as well as being stronger. 1680 on a nato and below on a 93150 Enjoy you watch in great health. Bil

HU
Hulk
Feb 20, 2018

The photos of your 1680 look great. Maybe I should have the plexiglass buffed? Thanks again.

BI
Bill
Feb 20, 2018

For reference Cyclops 127 Xtal - or a service crystal.

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Rolex forum with 22 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →