Why This Watch Matters For many collectors, a classic four-line Submariner Date from the late 1970s is the perfect daily wearer, and this ref. 1680 fits the bill. The Full Story Rolex turned the watch world upside down when introducing the Submariner in 1953. It remains one of the most sought-after watches in both modern and vintage iterations. Rolex has consistently upgraded and updated the watch since it hit the market with the latest technology, all while staying overwhelmingly true to its original design. In the late 1960s, a date function was added to the Submariner with the ref. 1680. The ref. 1680 featured very little variation compared to earlier Subs. A main differentiator within the reference is the red Submariner text on the dial until the mid-1970s, when it was switched to an all-white text, just like the example we have here. This was the first Sub with a date, starting a debate for the ages – Rolex still offers the Sub with or without the date. This example has aged gracefully with a slight and even patina on the lume and a bezel that has turned to a very dark grey; it can appear blue depending on the light. Paired with this ref. 1680 is its original Rolex Oyster bracelet. The resulting look is unmistakable as a vintage Submariner and is – of course – extremely attractive. For more information on vintage Rolex Submariners, click here. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: SubmarinerReference: 1680Year: 1978Case No: 5513669Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 39mm diameter; 12mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1575Bracelet/Strap: Rolex stainless steel solid Oyster No. 93150 bracelet with No. 580 end-links and divers extension Lug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Submariner ref. 1680 is in overall great condition. The case is thick and strong with scratches; it appears to be polished. The back of the lugs have some marks from the bracelet. The caseback has scratches from previous removal attempts. The dial and hands are in great condition with light patina. The lume on the dial and hands have aged to the same off-white creamy color. Some of the lume plots on the dial show normal signs of slight degradation. This patina on the dial presents well in contrast to the stark and bright white color of the dial text. The notched bezel ring is sharp, and the insert has aged ever so slightly to a very dark grey color with light wear and some scratches. In some lights, the bezel can look almost blue. The bracelet is in great overall condition with scratches and light stretch, pairing well with the rest of the watch. The "VC'' clasp code dates the bracelet to 1978. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
