Not all vintage Submariners are going to be practical for
everyday use. Some may be too fragile, others extremely rare or valuable.
However, there are many great vintage Submariner options that will hold up to
the rigors of daily life with reasonable price. One, in particular is the Rolex
Submariner reference 16800.
Rolex Submariner 16800
Submariner 16800 was first released in 1978 as an improved
version over the earlier model 1680. It remained in production for a full
decade until it was later replaced by the reference 168000. While it improved
substantially upon its predecessor, the reference 16800 is known as a
“transitional” Submariner to next model Reference 16610.
Water Resistance
This model introduced Rolex’s caliber 3035 movement, and
added a quickset date function to the Submariner. The reference 16800 was also
the First Submariner to feature a sapphire crystal, and the first to benefit
from the improved depth rating (from 200 meters to 300 meters).
Rolex Submariner 16800
The Rolex 16800 was a breakthrough for the Submariner line;
however it retained certain key traits that linked it to its predecessors. Most
notable among these was the matte dial with painted hour markers. Some, very
late examples of the 16800 were fitted with gloss dials and hour markers
outlined in white gold. These are considered “less transitional” than earlier
models, and much more closely resemble the reference 168000 Submariner that
followed.
Vintage Rolex (VR)
Choosing a vintage Submariner over a new one is a great way
to maintain exclusivity and ensure that your Rolex Submariner is unique. While
not all vintage Submariners are practical for everyday use, consider 16800 is
using sapphire crystal for scratch proof, 300M water resistance, Quick set
date, and higher bph 28,800 with higher time keeping accuracy. The reference
16800 is a fantastic option that boasts contemporary specifications and
durability. Moreover, it is less been pushed to sky high the price.
A Submariner Ref 16800 is available between typically HK$58,000 to 65,000 nowadays.
HK Snob
