Red Submariner - has it always been coveted by collectors?

[gouverneur]

Prett much what the title asks--is the popularity of the Red 1680 and its price premium something that's endured through the decades, or is it a relatively recent phenomenon? Just curious whether there are any long time collectors here with some perspective. Would be fascinating to learn if different models were the hot items of 1995, or 1980, etc.

[watchcrank]

I bought my first red sub for $500. or so if I remember in late 70's pre-owned. I don't remember many caring or paying any more until late 80's when Italian collectors started buying and naming what we call rare pieces today. ie. Newman Daytona, Cream 16550's (first one I bought I paid $1900.) Exchange rate, hype and supply & demand changes it all.
And gilt dialed subs and gmt's brought very little if any premium until mid 90's on the buyers market. m

[J!m]

I don't think it was a big deal. Like the '63 corvette that had the rear window split cut out to make them looks a couple years newer back then (Dad told me that one).

Mine was red and got a lovely white service dial. Owner was probably stoked because he had a new looking watch again, not the older red text version...

[andromeda160]

late 70's early 80's some bubblebacks were around $10k lol could've bought 10-20 daytonas for the price of a BB

[gouverneur]

Thanks for the perspectives, all, that's very interesting to learn. A red Sub for $500--I love it.