1980 Unpolished Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800 MK1 'pumpkin patina'

In many ways, the 16800 is considered the best of both worlds as far as striking a balance of vintage charm and modern wearability. Known as the “transitional Sub” in most circles, the new model arrived in 1978 to replace its aforementioned sibling. The 16800 retains the matte dial and painted indices of its predecessors, paired with desired modern accouterments, including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and an updated caliber. With the arrival of the Rolex caliber 3035, the operating frequency of the balance was increased to a modern 4Hz, or 28,800 vibrations per hour, and also marked the introduction of a quick-set date function for the first time. Its power reserve also increased to 50 hours, however when it comes to the core mechanics of the caliber the 3035 remains quite similar to the 1575 it replaced. By this time Rolex was more than aware of the level of reliability and accuracy they had created, and wisely decided not to attempt to reinvent the wheel as they evolved the caliber.

Offered for sale here is the best example in the market of the transitional Rolex Submariner ref. 16800. With serial 6,458,xxx, this piece dates from 1980 and it is part of the first batch MK1 of these transitional model.

 

The awesome, perfect, and even pumpkin patina on the lume dots, along with the perfectly matching patina on the hands contrast with the mint black matte dial, making the face of this piece just perfect.

 

Not only the dial of this example makes it special, the correct rotating diver bezel is in great condition too with a pumpkin and matching patina pearl. Along with the dial and bezel, this drawer condition 16800 features an unpolished thick case preserving its sharp factory chamfers.

 

Sapphire crystal in perfect conditions.

 

It is in full working order.

 

It comes suited on the original Rolex 93150 oyster bracelet with 593 endlinks and stamped VF. It has no stretch at all.

 

Indeed, this is a great opportunity to get the best example out there of a transitional model that is getting much attention recently.