1979 Rolex Submariner Date Reference 1680

Why This Watch Matters

Some things just get more beautiful with age, like this Sub with its faded grey-blue bezel insert and gorgeous patina. 

The Full Story

Launched in 1966, the Submariner reference 1680 brought a major innovation to the Submariner line, with the addition of a date window underneath the cyclops date magnifier. The one we’ve found for you here is from a bit later – around 1978. Submariner fans will tell you that for the first few years of reference 1680 manufacturing, the word “Submariner” was printed in red. However, this is still a true blue ref. 1680 in great condition, and part of a historically significant family of watches. Overall, this is a really great example of one of the most important Submariner references, and a great way to get your feet wet in the wild, wild world of vintage Submariner collecting.

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex
Model: Submariner
Reference: 1680
Year: 1979
Case No: 6094906
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 40mm diameter; 14mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Automatic Rolex-signed caliber 1570
Bracelet/Strap: Later stainless-steel Rolex-signed 93150 Oyster bracelet, end links stamped no. 580
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: N/A

What we Love and What You Should Know

There are a few light scratches to the bezel, and the tritium dot on the bezel is missing. There is a very consistent aging to the handset and the lume plots, which have turned a warm pumpkin color. Some very light aging to the metal parts of the handset has occurred. A very beautiful fading has developed on the bezel insert, often called “ghosting,” and it is now a light grey-blue. This is a stunning example of an iconic vintage Rolex.