Rolex Submariner Ref 16808 18k Yellow Gold

This 18k Submariner is in great vintage condition with wear consistent with age. The case is in good condition with normal signs of wear. The inside caseback is stamped “16800.” The hallmarks on the back of the lugs are clearly visible. The bezel insert is in great condition with normal signs of wear and scratches. The pip has developed patina and matches the lume on the dial nicely. The black nipple dial is in overall great condition with some darker patina around the edge of the dial that can be hard to notice. The lume on the dial has developed patina and aged to an attractive yellow color. The hour markers and hands have developed patina. The lume in the hands has developed patina and aged to a bit of a darker striking yellow color; the lume in the hands show some cracking. This watch has an 18k gold 9958 bracelet with divers extension and 12 links. The bracelet is in great condition with normal signs of wear; it has light stretch between the links. The crown on the clap shows wear and is still visible. The clasp is stamped “F” indicating it’s from 1981.

Pre-owned Rolex Submariner Ref. 16808 (circa 1981) is a gold and black edition of the trailblazing dive watch. When it hit the market over 40 years ago, it was only the second Submariner in yellow gold, followed only by ref. 1680. While many collectors might be more familiar with the stainless steel ref. 16800, the watch was also produced in precious metal and with a black or blue dial like the 5-digit Rolex for sale here. Additionally, both models sport the date at 3 o'clock and distinctive nipple-style hour markers. 

However, ref. 16808 sports several upgrades over its 4-digit processor, including scratch-resistant sapphire instead of acrylic, increased water resistance up to 1,000 feet, and the higher-beat caliber 3035 Perpetual movement with a Quickset date. This example of the Rolex 16808 is in lovely vintage condition, featuring a striking black dial and bezel.