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Old 3 March 2015, 08:03 AM   #1
Bigblack
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Looking to get my first Vintage Sub ? Advice

Hi all,

Looking to get some input/advice. i've sold a few pieces this last month and was looking at rebooting my collection. Wanted to start with a vintage submariner, something with a tritium dial, was thinking 16800 or 168000 as they are the most affordable. I tried on a friends with a leather bracelet and just loved the look. I also want something that is older so i don't have to be a queen about wearing on a day to day basis.

Seems like models with Sapphire and gold surrounds are the most common

and the ones with plexi are harder to find?

Which way should one go? or should i save for a 5513?
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Old 3 March 2015, 01:44 PM   #2
sennheiserz
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What about a nice 1680 White? Stunning dial, silver date wheel, top hat goodness. It's everything you could want in a vintage at little more than transitional sub prices.
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Old 4 March 2015, 02:09 PM   #3
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Thanks senn I'll have to look at them I thought it might have been over my price range, what's a fair price for a good condition one I should aim for
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Old 4 March 2015, 03:26 PM   #4
springer
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Sounds like you are on the right path, at least you seem to know what models you are interested in pursuing. Based on your preferences, I would highly recommend the Submariner 16800, especially the matte dial version which appears very similar to the earlier Submariner 1680s except that the 1680 has an acrylic crystal versus the other model's sapphire crystal. The 16800s are priced lower than the Submariner 1680s and definitely have the "vintage look" in my opinion. You can't go wrong with a 16800!

Good luck.
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Old 4 March 2015, 07:30 PM   #5
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A good question and something I also have been agonizing over for some time - without coming to a decision yet! True vintage (1680, plexi crystal & matte dial), transition vintage look (16800, saffire crystal & matte dial) or transition rare (168000, saffire & gloss dial, but due to a change in metal content, very few made)? The point the OP makes is about not having to worry about daily use, in which case the saffire crystal may be the safest bet - scratch proof.

But this very subject has been covered extensively in many threads & forums, without any clear winners, because it all comes down to personal taste and preference. If the objective is collectibility & future value, best stick with plexi and true vintage (1680).

If it is about vintage look & practicality, the 16800 is the best option. The 168000 does not look vintage (has a gloss dial with gold marker surrounds) and its rarity relates to something that is not visible (eg type of steel used for the case), so why pay a premium if the plan is to wear it daily. In that case perhaps a gloss dial 16800 would be lower cost/better option.

Good luck with your decision!
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Old 5 March 2015, 12:21 AM   #6
JJL
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I prefer / recommend the 1680 White. IMO, such an incredible vintage piece that won't destroy your wallet.

The 16800 matte dial is another great option as well

Good luck
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Old 5 March 2015, 02:32 AM   #7
PoderEsBueno
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I would suggest to take your time to understand what appeals to you more - 16800(0)/1680/5513.. I dont think you can go wrong with any of them, they are just different one another. Good luck
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Old 5 March 2015, 07:53 AM   #8
Bigblack
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I think if i were to get either i would be very happy, 1680 for the plexi, i already have a pam 372 which has plexi and love it, but 16800 would also be great for the updated materials as a daily wearer, Now it just about finding a great condition piece at a good price.

One thing i've noticed is that as i look for these watches with tritium dials, don't some of the very orange patina dials look almost faked? love the color but seems questionable
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Old 5 March 2015, 08:04 AM   #9
willang
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Quote:
Originally Posted by springer View Post
Sounds like you are on the right path, at least you seem to know what models you are interested in pursuing. Based on your preferences, I would highly recommend the Submariner 16800, especially the matte dial version which appears very similar to the earlier Submariner 1680s except that the 1680 has an acrylic crystal versus the other model's sapphire crystal. The 16800s are priced lower than the Submariner 1680s and definitely have the "vintage look" in my opinion. You can't go wrong with a 16800!

Good luck.
Wow, what a stunner. Is that for sale?
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Old 5 March 2015, 10:37 AM   #10
soundserious
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Milsub. Live in your car...or bicycle.
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Old 5 March 2015, 10:43 AM   #11
dysondiver
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buy the seller ,,, vintage can be a mine field.
plenty of knowledge here , use it , take your time and buy the best you can just about afford .
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Old 5 March 2015, 07:10 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by soundserious View Post
Milsub. Live in your car...or bicycle.
exactly, you only live once…
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