Vintage 1981 Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16800

[luxuwrist]

Rolex's Submariner is synonymous with the concept of a tool watch, and at the same time a classic design icon and one of the most important watches ever made. The Submariner's evolution took an important step with the reference 16800, which was the first Submariner with a quickset date feature, a ratcheting unidirectional bezel, and a sapphire crystal. The early examples of the 16800 also retained the matte black dial from the previous generation until 1984 when Rolex made the change to gloss dials with white gold marker surrounds, making the early 16800 the only matte dial/sapphire crystal/quickset Sub.
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That distinction is important because this is a watch that retains all of the vintage Rolex charm with some more modern technology and convenience included, making it excellently suited to, well, actually wearing than just keeping in a safe out of fear of ruining hard-to-find vintage Rolex acrylic crystals. The matte 16800 is the perfect vintage Rolex daily wearer in our opinion and this example fits right in with that ethos.

Take a look at the photos and our condition description below:
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Case: 40mm stainless steel case with a 7.20 million serial number dating production to approximately 1981. The case is in excellent condition and has seen minimal polishing.
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​Bezel: 120 click unidirectional bezel in excellent condition as pictured. The bezel insert has some minor surface marks but very minimal paint loss.

Dial/Hands: Original matte black dial with painted tritium markers. Hour plots have developed pleasing light, even patina. The hands are also original with matching tritium patina and some very light wear as pictured.

Crystal: Original sapphire crystal in good condition as pictured. The crystal has some very minor nicks on the crystal edge and light surface marks visible in certain light that do not affect the view of the dial or water resistance.
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Caseback: Original caseback in very good condition as shown.

Movement: Original Caliber 3035 movement in excellent condition that winds, runs, and sets time as it should. Timekeeping is excellent although service history is unknown.

Strap: Original 93150 bracelet with "G" clasp code and 563 end links and 11 links. Bracelet shows minor scratching consistent with wear and has only very light stretch.

​Accessories: None, sold as watch only. ​​































Price is $7250 shipped insured FedEx overnight CONUS via PayPal or wire (3% discount for wire). US sale preferred, international sales will pay the cost of shipping. Face to face in the Boston area also welcome. I have many references available. Please feel free to ask any questions. Thanks for looking!

[luxuwrist]

Still available.

[luxuwrist]

Still available.

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[luxuwrist]

Still available.

[luxuwrist]

Still available.