Rolex Submariner, Single Red ref. 1680, Calibre 1575, Mark 4 Dial, circa 1970

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

Exceptional Rolex Submariner (Single Red) Mark 4 Dial Model Reference 1680 Crica 1970 with Spare Bracelet The Rolex Submariner made its debut at the Basel Watch Fair in 1953. It was the first watch to be water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), a groundbreaking feat at the time. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex, aimed to create a durable and reliable timepiece for divers. The initial reference, the Submariner 6204, featured a black dial, large luminous hour markers, and Mercedes hands. Over the years, Rolex introduced various references, each incorporating improvements in design, technology, and water resistance. The Submariner became known for its distinctive Mercedes hands and a date window with a magnifying Cyclops lens. These features, along with its rotating bezel, contributed to the watch's distinctive appearance. While the original Submariner did not include a date function, Rolex introduced the Submariner Date in the early 1960s. This variation has a date window at 3 o'clock and has become equally popular. Rolex continues to refine the Submariner, incorporating modern materials and movements while preserving its classic design. The watch remains a symbol of precision, robustness, and style. What’s on offer This single red Rolex Submariner Model reference 1680 has been preserved excellently from its issue in 1970. This exact model has a mark 4 fitted dial which features the distinct feet first and open six white text seen below the single red submariner logo. These features allow you to differentiate from the various dial complications that came with the submariner over the years it was produced. Along with the superb condition text lines you can see the lume plots which have aged beautifully to a champagne colour which gives the watch a Vintage but classy feel to the overall design. The lume colour can differentiate over many years due to the type of climate it is kept in. Overall the dial on this Rolex Submariner has kept its timeless allure separating from most vintage dive watches seen today. The traditional Oyster bracelet is a service bracelet that was changed by Rolex at one of many services, but the original bracelet that came with the watch when it was new (although not in brilliant condition and now without end links) also comes with the watch so if you wish you can have this refurbished and fitted back to the watch. The condition of the bracelet that's fitted and the watch case is very good with only small blemishes and light scratching. It is also worth noting that the ref. 1680 is also the only Submariner Date to ever feature a bidirectional timing bezel. The bezel on this particular 1680 has been chipped slightly under the 40 and 55 markers, this does not take away from the fact it is still in very good condition for its age. The Rolex Submariner's popularity and design have solidified its status as one of the most iconic watches of all time, and especially these rarer iterations "the single red".