This Red Sub is in great vintage condition consistent with age. The case is in good condition with normal signs of wear. The inside caseback is stamped "1680 I.70." The serial and reference numbers are clearly visible between the lugs. The crown is a later "trip-lock" replacement with three dots. The bezel has remained sharp and the insert has faded from black to an attractive dark greyish-blue throughout. The dial is in great condition with some wear around the edge. It has aged from black to an even dark brown throughout earning this watch the nickname of "tropical." The lume on the dial has developed patina and aged to a pale yellow color. The hands have developed patina and the lume in the hands is close to matching the lume on the dial. The 9315 folded Oyster Bracelet has 11 links and 280 end links. The back of clasp is stamped 2/70 which corresponds to the case production. The divers extension is marked "Pat Pend." The bracelet is in good condition overall with normal signs of wear and some stretch between the links which is not uncommon.
Rolex introduced the reference 1680 around 1969 and it was in production until roughly 1979. This was the first Submariner to feature the date function and Rolex still offers date and no-date models to this day. This example has the word "Submariner" written in red text and collectors refer to these as the "Red Submariner." Rolex did this until around 1975 and then they switched to all white text. Collectors tend to gravitate towards these Red Subs and we have seen demand increase significantly in the last couple years.
Rolex made a few different "Red Submariner" dial variations during production of the 1680. The example we have here is referred to as a "Mark II" with meters first depth rating. This is one of the most sought after variations because these Mark II dials are known to turn brown, like this one. Besides the lovely brown dial, the bezel has aged to an attractive dark grey-blusih color that contrasts with the brown dial nicely. In addition to the gorgeous tropical dial, this watch features a "Pat Pend" bracelet. It's crazy to think that these color-change dials were considered defective back in the day and we can't imagine how many were tossed - what a shame! We really love how this example aged, from the bezel to the lume to the dial it just sings in the light. If you are in the market for a tropical Sub, this is worth considering.
Simply the best.
Excellent service, staff was very helpful in educating me on my purchase. I’ll never consider buying anywhere else
So far everything has been great!
My birth year serial Perfect matching markers and hands patina Perfect matching pearl Fat font insert with a beautiful grey out fade patina Running 100% excellent time. Accurate to the second even after 24 hours and non effects by wearing or resting positions.
outstanding example of Red Submariner. Exactly what I have been looking for.
Item delivered promptly and as described.
A little late on my review but I thought better late than never. I purchased this watch as an every day timepiece and couldn't be happier. I wear it everywhere and it still looks and functions great.
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