Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16800 - Transitional Matte Dial

The Rolex Submariner is a true icon - and the word icon does get thrown around a lot. If you were to ask 10 people to draw you their idea of a watch looks like - chances are they would draw or describe something that looks like a Rolex Submariner. It’s the dive watch of reference good/bad/indifferent there is no escaping it. Over its 70 year run there have been numerous changes made to the model, but this 16800 represents a very interesting period in the Submariner story.

The Ref. 1680 was the first Submariner to feature a date, and had a long production run spanning close to 15 years - and was eventually replaced by the 16800 series of Submariner Date. During this time the 16800 are typically broken down into two difference variants, each with their own appeal. The early pieces feature matte black dials, whereas the second half of production introduced glossy black dials with the first applied Tritium-filled white gold indices.

Some enthusiasts and collectors say that this, along with the last of the matte dial Ref. 5513 Submariners were the last Rolexes that were purchased and used by people who needed the ruggedness and capability of a true sports dive watch. A tool. Where by the end of the 16800s production with gloss dials, Rolex was aware that many of their models had gained traction with professionals who worked in office settings too.

The example that we have here is an very early example dating to circa 1980. It comes to us with a strong professionally refurbished case showing light signs of wear throughout with no major damage or blemishes to speak of. The bezel and black aluminum timing insert are in excellent condition, showing just one light blemish to the left of the 55 minute graduation. The matte black dial within is fantastic, with a consistent texture and evenly patinated Tritium indices with no deviation in color. The handset matches beautifully and shows light oxidation from age. It comes fitted to a correct solid-link Oyster bracelet with a signed fliplock clasp.