Rolex
1978 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 1680) "Pumpkin"
The Rolex Submariner ref. 1680 is a stunning classic. First introduced in 1966, the ref. 1680 includes the date, unlike previous Submariners (ie. ref. 5512 and 5513). The Infamous Red Submariner is also a ref. 1680 which had the word "Submariner" in red lettering, manufactured from 1969-1975. This watch is an example of what is referred to as the "White Dial." It is the first ref. 1680 with the word "submariner" in white lettering.
This Rolex ref. 1680 has an exceptionally stunning vibrant "pumpkin" patina to the dial. This Rolex Submariner ref. 1680 would make a versatile daily driver in a casual setting or would look great paired with a suit. The ref. 1680 is an all-around wonderful sport watch, and would make a nice addition to an existing collection, or would be a unique stand-alone vintage piece.
| Stock # | RLXSUB771680-2 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Submariner | |
| Model | 1680 | |
| Serial | 52XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Black | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The thick and symmetrical case appears to have been only lightly polished in the past and remains in excellent condition with light signs of use. The beautifully faded bezel insert has achieved a handsome light blue coloration with minimal signs of previous wear, the pearl at the 12 o'clock position is a later luminova service replacement. The Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces retains 11 links that display light stretch from use.
DIAL & HANDS
The original matte black dial has achieved one of the most impressive pumpkin patinas we've seen, boasting a vibrant and consistent orange color across each lume plot with no degradation visible under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hour and minute hands match the dial perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the hour hand shows some very minor cracking and is stable, the sweep-seconds hand has been professionally restored to coordinate with the dial patina. The dial does exhibit a scratch to the right of the Rolex crown, though it isn't very obvious. The metallic date wheel is original with open 6's and 9's.
ACCESSORIES
None. Watch is keeping time within COSC Spec, previous service history is unknown.