1978 Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 MK1 dial

The Rolex Submariner ref. 1680 was the first in Submariner’s history to feature a date and, to ease the reading, the “cyclops” lens on the acrylic crystal, allowing for a 2.5x magnification.

 

Rolex introduced the Submariner 1680 in 1967 and continued to manufacture the reference until about 1980. However, the “Red” Submariner with its characteristic red name on the dial was only produced for the first part of the ref. 1680’s production run, until approximately 1976. The Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 ‘white’ was then born, with a production period from 1976/77 to 1979 only.

Offered for sale here is an honest Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 with MK1 dial which dates to 1978.

 

The black matte dial is superb, with very little wear if any, and featuring a light creamy patina. The hands are matching and show some aging. The seconds hand has probably been relumed with luminova. The original silver date wheel and ‘open’ sixes and nines give the watch tons of character too.

 

The case shows signs of previous polishing and wear, with signs of wear. The case back is found in the same condition. The original bezel insert is stunning, showing a deep petrol blue hue when exposed to certain light. The pip/pearl seems to be a luminova replacement.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

The acrylic crystal has some minor scratches that could be easily buffed away.

 

It is suited on its Rolex Oyster 93150 stainless steel solid-links bracelet with 580 end links, clasp code P8 and divers’ extension that presents little stretch and normal wear.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.