Why This Watch Matters This Rolex Submariner ref. 16800 offers the perfect blend of vintage and modern. The combination of a sapphire crystal, the upgraded movement, and the matte dial, without white gold hour markers, represents the best of both worlds. The Full Story The Rolex Submariner ref. 16800 represented a significant upgrade for Rolex's iconic dive watch in 1979. The ref. 16800 is considered to be a transitional model, and this example is the perfect example why, with a matte black dial without white gold surrounding the hour markers. The ref. 16800 replaced ref. 1680, which was the first Sub to include a date complication. The ref. 16800 was upgraded with a deeper depth rating to 1000 feet/300 meters, which is still the standard for contemporary Submariners. Rolex also gave this model a sapphire crystal and an updated movement with quick-set date functionality. In the first few years of its production, ref. 16800 was fitted with a matte dial and painted indexes as seen in ref. 1680. This example has an overall aesthetic more associated with vintage Submariners, but has the benefits of the upgraded movement and scratch resistant sapphire crystal. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Submariner Reference: 16800Year: 1982 Case No: 7277931Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 39mm diameter; 12.5 thickness Crystal: Sapphire Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Automatic 3035Bracelet/Strap: Rolex stainless steel Oyster no. 93150 bracelet with no. 593 end links Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Sub is in good condition. The case is strong and has been polished. The case has light scratches. The interiors of both sets of lugs show some signs of polishing. The dial is in good condition with light patina; there are some light marks around the central axis. The hands have developed some oxidation. The hour and seconds hands show signs of wear with signs of slight cracking. The lume on the hands and on the dial are matching in color. The bezel is original and in great condition with light scratches. The pip is a later replacement. The date wheel has developed patina. The bracelet has been lightly polished and shows signs of stretch between the links.
