ROLEX | SUBMARINER, REFERENCE 16800, STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH DATE AND BRACELET, CIRCA 1980

Rolex introduced the reference 16800 in 1978, replacing the 1680. This brought with it several changes, some more noticeable than others. Rolex re-designed the case from the previous reference 1680, in order to increase the depth rating an additional 100 meters; from 200 meters (660 feet) to 300 meters (1000 feet). This was also the first Submariner to be fitted with the Rolex calibre 3035, which not only runs at a higher frequency than the previous calibre 1570, but it also features the very practical quickset date function, which means the date can be set individually from setting the time, making it more user friendly. Other features introduced with this reference and still used today were the sapphire crystal, which offers an increased scratch resistance to acrylic crystal and a uni-directional bezel. The uni-directional bezel is a useful safety feature for divers, as it prevents the bezel to turn anti-clockwise which would mislead the diver on his oxygen time. 

The lot on offer is from 1980 and is an attractive example that comes as a complete set with the original Rolex Guarantee dated 17 March 1982, the user manuals, presentation case and even the miniature Submariner Anchor.