Vintage Rolex Submariner 16800, Matte Dial,Full Set (1984)
There are few vintage watches that are just perfect like this. The cream patina and the dial on this watch is simply one of a kind.
The Rolex Submariner 16800 is a very special model that bridged the transition from the matte dials and vintage models to more modern looks with. The 16800 was introduced in 1979 and is considered a transitional model that bridged the gap between the reference 1680 and newer models. The 168000 was the only other model produced between these two but it was in production for an estimated 9 months only. The matte dials were replaced later on with the gold framed, modern hour markers that is recognized in the contemporary Rolex dials. The earlier watches, however, include the beautiful vintage look, the matte dial, and like in this watch the development of a unique patina combined with modern and technically advanced aspects that still share a familiar design with its well-established predecessor, the 1680.
The modern aspects hidden in this vintage watch are the sapphire crystal, the unidirectional, ratcheting bezels and a new generation of in-house movement. The reference 1680 lacked a quickset function for its date complication. The updated caliber 3035 that was fitted inside the reference 16800 which conviniently added the quickset date, and also was equipped with an increased frequency of 28,800 bph – the same rate as a contemporary Rolex movement.
The combination of a matte dial with painted tritium hour markers with a durable sapphire crystal makes for a perfect blend of vintage and modern aesthetics and functionality.
. All previous iterations of the Submariner were fitted with acrylic crystals and bidirectional, friction-fitted bezels; however the changes that were first introduced on the reference 16800, have now become standard features on Rolex’s contemporary Submariner dive watches. Along with the updated crystal material and bezel design came an increased depth rating – from 660 feet (200 meters) to 1,000 feet (300 meters) – the exact same depth rating of a modern Rolex Submariner. All previous iterations of the date and no-date Subs were fitted with acrylic crystals and bidirectional, friction-fitted bezels; however, the changes that were first introduced on the reference 16800, have now become standard features on Rolex’s contemporary Submariner dive watches. Unfortunately, with the more contemporary look, the white gold framed hour markers the modern versions have also lost the "soul" and "tool-watch-look" of these older watches.
RETURN & REFUND POLICY
Each vintage watch is guaranteed a 30-day mechanical warranty that we believe to be one of the most comprehensive in the industry. We absolutely stand behind every vintage watch we sell, though due to the nature of vintage watches, we expect reasonable treatment of all watches by their owners. Each watch is completely serviced professionally, each watch is known and certified to be working before shipment, though we make no statement about mechanical accuracy or waterproofing. Watches are packaged and secured professionally to ensure no damage can occur during shipment.
Disclaimer
Please note that the beauty of time/ Nima Immobilien does not guarantee for future movement of the watch. Mechanical vintage watches need frequent servicing and upkeep of their movement for preservation.
The Beauty Of Time and its associates attempt to be as accurate as possible. However, Nima Immobilien/The Beauty Of Time does not warrant that product descriptions or other content of this site are accurate, complete, reliable, current, or error-free. If a product offered by Nima Immobilien/ The Beauty Of Time is not as described, your sole remedy is to return it in unused condition. All items purchased from are made pursuant to a shipment contract. This basically means that the risk of loss and title for such items pass to you upon our delivery to the carrier.Please be aware that any attempt to change a strap or bracelet could result in unintentional damage to the watch case or strap that would make it ineligible for return.Please note we do not guarantee waterproofing or water resistance unless we specifically say that the watch has been pressure tested by us, and is therefore guaranteed waterproof to a specified depth, even if it says "waterproof - yes"; this will be just how it was originally described by the manufacturer and not us. Vintage watches should not be exposed to water at all, thus we do not warranty water resistance issues on vintage watches. Please note that time-keeping accuracy and power reserves on vintage watches will not be the same as one could expect from a modern mechanical watch and vintage watches need to be frequently serviced and protected.
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