Vintage Rolex Submariner 1680/8 Papers for sale

Description ▲

In 1969, Rolex introduced a new chapter in the world of professional dive watches: for the first time, the Submariner was offered in solid 18k yellow gold. This marked the beginning of the now-legendary reference 1680/8. While the steel version of the 1680 was produced in large numbers, the gold version remained a rare and exclusive collector's piece.

Production lasted only until 1979, which is considered a short run by Rolex standards. After that, it was replaced by the five-digit reference 16808. Today, the 1680/8 is one of the most desirable vintage Submariners.

The watch stands out with its classic black and gold color scheme. The black dial with gold-bordered hour markers is known as the "nipple dial" - a style used only on gold Rolex sport models. The tritium lume has aged into a warm patina, matching beautifully with the gold text and champagne-colored date disc. The black bezel with gold numbers adds to the elegant, sporty look.

A special highlight of this particular example is its documented provenance: it was sold in Santiago de Chile in 1974, confirmed by the original punched chronometer certificate, which includes the matching serial number and the date of sale: April 4, 1974. This rare document adds significant value for collectors.

Whether worn with a dress shirt for a special event or on a sunny day with a casual outfit, this golden Submariner always makes a refined impression. It doesn’t feel flashy but rather tasteful and elegant. Its excellent condition and the original papers make it a great choice for any serious vintage collector.

Condition report
Dial: perfect black matte dial – original tritium lume with warm patina matching in markers and hands – signed with "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 660ft-200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified T Swiss T".

Case: 18k yellow gold - crisp lugs, full profile - very slight signs of wear - intact numbers between the lugs - deep gold hallmarks on the back of the lugs - original signed Triplock Rolex crown.

Movement: automatic caliber Rolex 1570 with hacking seconds function - values on the timegrapher: rate: -6s/day, amplitude: 260, beat error: 0.3.

Bracelet: brown crocodile leather strap with original Rolex gold clasp, signed with 750 gold hallmarks.

Serial number: 3583xxx (1973)

Features ▲

Manufacturer: Rolex

Model: Submariner

Reference: 1680/8

Functions: central second - COSC certified chronometer - hacking second - screw-down crown - hour and minute - rotating bezel - screwed-on caseback - date

Material: Yellow Gold

Carat: Gold 750 : 18 ct

Dial: black

Watch glass: acrylic crystal

Delivery Contents: chronometer certificate - Papers

Bracelet: Crocodile leather

Type of clasp: pin buckle

Diameter: 40mm

Height: 14mm

Caliber name: Rolex 1570

Movement type: automatic

Year of Manufacture: 1973

Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition

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