Rolex

The Rolex 'Red' Submariner reference 1680 was specifically made for the Peruvian Air Force. While all FAP Rolex watches are rare, Red Submariners are amongst the rarest, as most FAP issued watches were from the Daytona or GMT Master model line. On the back of the screw down case back, the case number is engraved, which is one way to confirm that this was a special order watch produced by Rolex. Additionally, the outside of the case back is engraved 'Fuerza Aerea del Peru'. This lot features a MK4 red submariner dial with a very rare “kissing 40” faded bezel insert. Kissing 40 inserts are seen when the '4' and '0' touch on bezel insert, which was a factory error made by Rolex when their machine dyes wore out. The 9315 bracelet was the original bracelet type utilized on 1680 Red Submariners.

The partnership between Rolex and the FAP has an interesting and storied history and is believed to have been due to the close friendship between the official Rolex dealer of Lima, and the late Heineger, Head of Rolex South America (who's father Patrick Heineger, was the Director General of Rolex SA).

Over the years, Rolex has made special order timepieces for various organizations, including military divisions of various countries. One of these organizations has been the Peruvian Air Force. The present lot is a fine example of an extremely collectible reference due to its rarity and collectability.