16800 Submariner eye test?

[orly]

Hi all, I've owned a modern Datejust before but completely out of my depth with vintage Rolexes. I'm thinking of purchasing a Rolex from a reputable source but would like to get some unbiased opinions if everything appears to be correct and original? Thanks in advance

[0nly5iv3Digits]

Looks great and all original to my eyes! Correct dial and hands, 93150 bracelet, and obviously period correct insert. Even had the correct 702/3 crown! All good from the pics I’d say.

Nice piece!

[orly]

Originally Posted by 0nly5iv3Digits

Looks great and all original to my eyes! Correct dial and hands, 93150 bracelet, and obviously period correct insert. Even had the correct 702/3 crown! All good from the pics I’d say.

Nice piece!

Thanks so much for the helpful feedback!

[Dan S]

Very soft case, unfortunately.

[TuRo]

All original. I'm not too fussed about a bit of polishing per se... but the north west lug and crown guards are quite polished. Should be reflected in price ...

[Swearengen]

Is it just me or do the hands look a fair bit lighter than the lumes on the dial? Possibly replacement/relumed hands?

[orly]

Originally Posted by TuRo

All original. I'm not too fussed about a bit of polishing per se... but the north west lug and crown guards are quite polished. Should be reflected in price ...

I really struggle to tell if something has been polished. How can you guys tell? They're asking for the equivalent of USD8600 which I thought was a really good price?

[orly]

Originally Posted by Swearengen

Is it just me or do the hands look a fair bit lighter than the lumes on the dial? Possibly replacement/relumed hands?

No they are a couple of shades lighter although I have seen this in other examples. I don't mind so much if they are replaced hands as long as they are period correct and not an aftermarket replica? Another slightly different angle photo attached.

[TuRo]

Originally Posted by orly

I really struggle to tell if something has been polished. How can you guys tell? They're asking for the equivalent of USD8600 which I thought was a really good price?

Your 3rd photo clearly shows that one lug is thinner (at end) than the other as a result of polishing out a ding/dent I suspect.

$8600/£7000 for a matte dial is a fairly keen price having said that. UK average now matte is £8500, down from £9500 18 months ago.

[orly]

Originally Posted by TuRo

Your 3rd photo clearly shows that one lug is thinner (at end) than the other as a result of polishing out a ding/dent I suspect.

$8600/£7000 for a matte dial is a fairly keen price having said that. UK average now matte is £8500, down from £9500 18 months ago.

Ah right I see it now. Although not as obvious with the photo taken directly above it but it does look like some material has been taken off.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by orly

I really struggle to tell if something has been polished. How can you guys tell? They're asking for the equivalent of USD8600 which I thought was a really good price?

Rounded edges, cratered lug holes, thin crown guards.

[Swearengen]

Originally Posted by orly

No they are a couple of shades lighter although I have seen this in other examples. I don't mind so much if they are replaced hands as long as they are period correct and not an aftermarket replica? Another slightly different angle photo attached.

I'd be put off is the hands glow in the dark (after being exposed to bright light) as the lumes on the dial won't. Might be worth checking out before you buy if it bothers you.

[springer]

The case appears to have suffered from over-polishing which is fairly common in 40-year-old watches that have been serviced and worn regularly. The top left lug appears to be much thinner than the other lugs which was caused by over-polishing and is evidenced by the tip of the spring bar "peaking" through the spring bar hole.

The hands have probably been replaced with newer tritium hands during a service at some point but, it usually isn't a make-or-break deal for many collectors as long as they match fairly close.

You'll need to decide whether you are comfortable with the price. The case is repairable which would put the watch back to the condition from when it was new.

[karleone]

Over polished. I would pass

[Tools]

Good looking watch that has been prepped for sale.

I would say that it looks "correct", but it is not possible to say that any of the parts are "original" - it has clearly been worked on.

[Eric88]

Agree with the comments...one time in my earlier days of vintage watches, I acquired a 1680 with overpolished lugs and once you realize this, it is very hard to "unsee" them and overcome this shortcoming...keep your eyes out for a better example is my advice.

[orly]

Thanks for the helpful feedback all! 😊