Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800

Why We Love It

There is no question that the Rolex Submariner is one of the most recognized and adored wristwatches of all time.  And for good reason; Hans Wilsdorf’s Oyster case design was never more imperative than through its application in the purpose-built diver. 

But the Submariner’s ubiquity has turned up the noses of many a collector who eschew commonness, showing interest instead in the oldest and rarest executions of the model, or those that boast the most impressive condition or unique states of aging and patina.  Superb examples of rare Submariners can fetch big dollars.  A Ref. 6538 Submariner recently sold at Christie’s for over $1,000,000. 

That’s why we love this Ref. 16800 so much.  It offers the a very intriguing entry point to the coolness of a Submariner, while also getting something that’s a little different.

But instead of spending an arm and a leg (or more), you slide coolly in under $9K for a watch that has an incredibly sharp 39mm case and Tritium dial and hands.  Sure, the dial is glossy, but so were the very first Submariner dials that Rolex ever made.  Okay, so crystal is sapphire, you’ll be glad it is when you wear it every damn day.  Oh yeah, and it’s got quick-set date and a Ref. 93150 Oyster bracelet with flip-lock claps and diver’s extension, a little "you're welcome" from Rolex themselves.  

It’s a beautiful, useful Rolex Submariner that you can enjoy every day, just as Wilsdorf intended.  It's certainly got us thinking...

The Story

The Reference 1680, released in 1966, deviated from previous iterations of the Submariner--like the beloved ref. 5513--by including a date window. This change was remarkably divisive because, according the diehards, if you need a date on your dive watch, you're kind of screwed.

Despite the divided opinions on the ref. 1680, from a non-purist's standpoint, it ticks all the boxes for a tool watch. A sturdy stainless steel case? Check. Robust movement that is dust-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof? Check, check, and check.

The ref. 16800, successor to the ref. 1680, is viewed as a transitional model because it's the first Submariner reference to have a sapphire crystal. Another slightly polarizing change is the inclusion of white gold surrounds to the hour plots. It was also fitted with a uni-directional ratcheting bezel, a glossy (rather than matte) dial, a high-beat Rolex Cal. 3035 movement, and a quick-set date function.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.