Collection
Subexplorer shares the unexpected story of acquiring a second Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680, a model he already cherished as a lifelong companion. This post beautifully illustrates how even the most resolved collectors can be swayed by a truly exceptional vintage piece, emphasizing the allure of an unpolished case and pristine condition.
Hello friends!
I wish to share a new timepiece with my friends here.
I
have shown before, and several times, my 1680 Sub which accompanies me
since my wife bought it for me, brand new, in February 1977, and of
course I have told its story.
It was my only watch for several decades, till I fell in love with watch collecting a few years ago.
It
is a keeper, and and object for which I have great love, as it has been
a silent and faithful companion during a big part of my life, worn day
and night without ever failing me.
This watch is a keeper, and remains in a great working condition with the proverbial Rolex accuracy.
This is to say, that not only I intend to keep it forever and handle it to my son when I depart from this world, but also that I had never contemplated the idea of buying another 1680 for my collection.
As a matter of fact, in the last several years, I had refused many offerings of 1680 in great condition, sometimes in a much better shape than my beloved one.
Some weeks ago, I received a phone call from my friendly vintage watch dealer, offering a 1680, which I refused as in previous occassions. My friend, who says he knows me very well, insisted that this time, I should see this timepiece in person, before saying NO again.
So just to be polite with him, I visited his shop some days later, just a day before taking my plane for my short vacation trip to USA.
My friend was right. This watch deserved to be viewed in person!
How nice to view an old watch from 1972, with its case unpolished, and with only a few marks showing it had been Little used by its previous owner!
Examining this watch, I thought...
How can anybody avoid falling in love with those full thick untouched case lugs, or the view of these sexy original lug bevels?
But there was a little additional detail which crowned this watch and made me think I should seriously consider about refusing "another 1680"...
... And that little detail was a simple "touch of color"...
So... after carefuly viewing this 1680, I asked my friend to keep this watch for me till I returned from my week long vacation trip, so I would have enough time to think about it...
Of course, the image of this timepiece kept haunting me during my whole holidays, and when I returned home, the decision was already made.
As
much as I had never considered the purchase of a second 1680 before, I
had never thought about owning a Red version either. This is a type
which you need to buy the seller first. I have good previous experience
with my friend, and we reviewed this watch together and he guaranteed
its originality.
The date inside the case back is II 72,
in coincidence with the serial number range.The movement is marked
"1570" on the bridge, but of course it is actually a 1575, and is in
pristine condition and working order.
The case and the folding links bracelet
shows the original Rolex polish, and only a few dings and small marks
which denotes that the original owner had not worn it for long, or had
cherished it very well, as this watch deserved.
I guess this new 1680 will not make feel jealous my first beloved Sub
date. It will just complement it, and make a good company so it will not
feel alone again!
I wish I will be able to enjoy this second 1680 as much as my first one, and for a long time as well.
And I wish my friends here will like it as much as I do.
Thank you for your kind attention, and receive my best cordial regards, Abel.
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.
a 1680 red Submariner in this condition , of course deserve to be in your collection. quoting to our mutual friend D. Luis : if " an Omega is an Omega" , a Rolex IS A ROLEX , you know what I mean. Wishing you a nice summertime ! King
Of course you did the right thing. This is one fine specimen as far as I can see and coming from a trusted seller makes it that much better. Enjoy them in the best of health! fernando
Not only Red, but these lugs are in very great shape. What a case! And the patina of the dial looks awesome, too. Happy for you, Happy Abel! Un abrazo, Amigo moi. Nicolas
...dial, case, insert: everything is just perfect !
it's incredible how a little detail can make a difference!...very nice! the red Sub is a very sexy beast! Matt
for any tru afficionado. A dream Sub for me Bravo dear Abel! Amazing pictures as well Best regards Damjan
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