ROLEX | SUBMARINER, REFERENCE 16800 A STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH DATE AND BRACELET, CIRCA 1982

Dial: black matte dialCalibre: cal. 3035 automatic, 27 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw down case backCase number: 7'121'954 Closure: stainless steel Rolex bracelet and folding clasp  Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 177 mm Signed: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The date function is working properly. The dial is very attractive and in original condition. The lumes have aged to a warm ivory nicely matching the hands. The insert is faded but is very attractive with wear and losses throughout. The case is in nice condition with only minor polishing and minor wear which is consistent with use. The case back with surface wear but with crisp milled edges. The bracelet is attractive overall with only light surface wear. 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."

To enhance the efficiency and functionality of its watches, Rolex continuously strives for technicality upgrades of its movement, and the reference 16800 is an example of such a case.  The reference 16800 was first launched in the 1970s with a quick date change through the crown that was never seen before. With a redesigned bezel and replaced sapphire crystal, the new submariner is then able to achieve a depth rating from the original 200 meters to a remarkable 300 meters.