Lot | 11 |
Starting Bid: | $12,000 |
Sku: | 119655 |
Brand: | Rolex |
Model: | Submariner |
Reference: | 1680 |
Serial: | 3,2XX,XXX - 1973 |
Gender: | Men's |
Material: | Stainless Steel |
Dial: | Black |
Size: | 40mm |
Bracelet: | Oyster |
Accessories: | Rolex Box and Papers |
*The Watch is running at COSC spec.
*This item has a Reserve
*Bob’s does NOT charge a buyer’s premium and there are no shipping costs in US. Click Here for international shipping & info.
The Submariner reference 1680 was the first Submariner to feature a date window and notably, the earliest reference 1680s had “SUBMARINER” printed in red on the dial, garnering these watches the nickname “Red Subs.” Red Subs are highly prized by collectors and one of the favorite models of Paul Altieri of Bob’s Watches. They are distinctive and beautiful watches.
The present watch has a “Mark 5” “Red Sub” dial with the depth rating in feet before meters (known as a “feet first dial”) was purchased by Bob’s Watches from the original owner, who wore the watch for years until recently when he decided to sell it. Finding a Red Sub with original box and papers is not common, so this is a special opportunity for collectors.
The previous owner purchased the watch from a dealer in Denver in the 1970's. He wore the same watch almost everyday for 50 years, and loved how throughout all 50 years, the watch didn't need any repair, apart one jewel. "Nothing I've owned has performed as well." He always felt better with a Submariner on his wrist, so after he sold his Submariner to us, he purchased a brand new one. This watch has been to the top of most "fourteeners" in Colorado, which are hiking summits with an elevation of 14,000ft and higher.
This “Red Submariner” has a Mark 5 feet first depth rating dial, that appears to be original to the case. The tritium luminous material has aged to a warm creamy-yellow color. The hour, minute, and seconds hands appear to be original, and match the dial.
The case has been previously polished.
The bezel insert appears to be original, with scratches and fading throughout, particularly at the 12 o’clock triangle. The pearl appears to be possibly newer, but matches the color of the dial and hands.
The bracelet appears to be unpolished, and is a 93150, with 593 end links and MA4 clasp dating to April 2005.
The crown is Triplock and appears to be original. The watch is running and keeping time with a one-year service warranty included. Bracelet has 12 links and will approximately fit an 9 inch wrist.
Auction Terms & Conditions | Bob's Watches | (800) 494-3708 | Bond # 72BSBHE9842