Model Reference
The Rolex Submariner 1680 emerged during the late 1960s and continued until the late 1970s. These dates put it among the Submariners which are considered to be vintage watches nowadays. But the 1680 model introduced a significant innovation into the series of watches which used to be timetelling devices only.
One of the features of the early 1680 is a red inscription “Submariner” on the dial. Later, it was changed into white one and the reference was divided into two periods. Production of the reference was discontinued due to the emergence of the new one -16800.
Prior to the 1680 model, the Submariner lacked the date aperture on its face. Rolex added this feature to the watch by putting the date display at three o'clock position and including the Cyclops lens above it. This was a big change for a watch whose design had remained simple on purpose.
Everything else about this watch still resembles the early Submariner. It features a stainless steel Oyster case which has a diameter of around 40mm. There is an acrylic crystal in front of the dial while there is an aluminum insert mounted on the rotating diving bezel. The black dial is decorated with luminous hands and hour markers.
The automatic calibre 1575, with the date complication included in Rolex's traditional 15xx calibre family, powers the watch while the water resistance was rated up to 200 meters.
Prior to the 1680 model, the Submariner lacked the date aperture on its face. Rolex added this feature to the watch by putting the date display at three o'clock position and including the Cyclops lens above it. This was a big change for a watch whose design had remained simple on purpose.
Everything else about this watch still resembles the early Submariner. It features a stainless steel Oyster case which has a diameter of around 40mm. There is an acrylic crystal in front of the dial while there is an aluminum insert mounted on the rotating diving bezel. The black dial is decorated with luminous hands and hour markers.
The automatic calibre 1575, with the date complication included in Rolex's traditional 15xx calibre family, powers the watch while the water resistance was rated up to 200 meters.
At a Glance
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BQ Watches is known for our exceptional inventory of pre-owned Rolex Submariner 1680 timepieces. You can always rely on us to have the best vintage, rare, antique and modern watches on the market. Despite our wide selection of timepieces, we know that we might not always have your desired timepiece on hand. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to ask us about our sourcing services. Our team is always ready and willing to help you find the watch you want. Just let us know the brand, model and any other relevant details, and we’ll get to searching.
Also, make sure to check out our current inventory to see if we have anything on hand that you love. We make sure to constantly rotate our selection with amazing selections from brands like Rolex, Omega, Panerai, Patek Philippe, IWC, Audemars Piguet, Bremont, Cartier and many more.
A pre-owned Rolex Submariner 1680 is an excellent choice for collectors looking for a true vintage Rolex sports watch. Introduced in the late 1960s, it was the first Submariner to feature a date display with the distinctive Cyclops magnifier. Its 40mm Oyster case, acrylic crystal and aluminium bezel give the 1680 the unmistakable character and proportions associated with vintage Rolex dive watches.
The Submariner 1680 is particularly desirable thanks to its history and range of dial variations, including the highly collectable early “Red Submariner” models. Later white-text examples also remain popular, with individual patina adding further character to each watch. Combining an important place in Submariner history with timeless styling and strong collector appeal, the 1680 remains one of the standout vintage Rolex references.
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BQ Watches is here to help you with all of your luxury watch services. You can always come to our online shop or London showroom to buy buy your next used Rolex Submariner 1680 timepiece. You can also sell a timepiece you want to get off your hands. We can offer you cash or a trade-in value if you want to exchange it for something in our inventory. We also offer professional services for cleanings, repairs and appraisals.
And it’s worth mentioning again to always come to BQ Watches when you want to source a pre-loved Rolex Submariner 1680 watch. Our team will always provide unparalleled customer service and work to find the perfect watch for you.
When you know which of our services you need, just fill out our contact form below. A member of our team will reach out shortly to assist you.
A vintage 1680 needs to be read carefully. Dial type can help establish its period, but the hands, bezel insert, bracelet, case and movement also need to make sense with the watch. Decades of servicing may have introduced replacement components, while polishing and natural ageing can alter how a piece presents today.
That level of detail is where BQ Watches can assist when you buy a vintage Submariner 1680. Our specialists can discuss the individual watch, rather than treating every Red or white text 1680 as though condition and originality were equal.
Owners can arrange a professional valuation when they want to understand the current market position of their Submariner. If you're ready to sell, BQ Watches can assess the watch directly, while an exchange provides another option when your next purchase is already in mind.
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