Important Watches I

Rolex

Submariner ‘Red’, Reference 1680 | A stainless steel wristwatch with date and bracelet, Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Circa 1973

Auction Closed

April 24, 08:45 AM GMT

Estimate

200,000 - 300,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Rolex

Submariner ‘Red’, Reference 1680

A stainless steel wristwatch with date and bracelet, Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Circa 1973

Dial: black

Calibre: cal. 1570 automatic, 26 jewels

Case: stainless steel, screw down case back

Case number: 3’301’838

Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp

Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mm

Signed: case, dial and movement; dial further signed by retailer

Accessories: none

The first ever Rolex Submariner to feature a date window, reference 1680 was launched in 1967. On early examples, made until approximately 1975, the “Submariner” line of dial text was printed in red. Subsequent versions of the 1675, and indeed every later Date Submariner featured only white text. On top of the unique dial text and as collectors will know, throughout the production run of Rolex watches, the brand will experiment with different dial layouts and designs resulting in differentiable dial “marks”. In the case of the Red 1680, seven marks have been recognised by the community, with the present watch belonging to Mk. 6.

The relative scarcity, combined with the many dial variations, recognisability and historic value all contribute to make this watch extremely collectible. As a result, the Red 1680 has always been considered to be a must-have reference for Rolex collectors and deserves a spot in everyone’s watch box. What further elevates the present example lies right beneath the handstack: the Tiffany & Co. retailer signature. Perhaps the most prestigious retailer of any brand, it turns this Red Sub into even more of a treasure.

勞力士 Submariner ‘Red’ 型號1680

精鋼鏈帶腕錶，備日期顯示，由Tiffany & Co. 發行，約1973年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."