RolexSubmariner "red"
Brand: Rolex
Model: Submariner "red"
Reference: 1680
Case: stainless steel
Dial: tropical brown, original tritium
Hands: original tritium
Year: 1971 (sold in 1973)
Movement: automatic
Diameter: 40 mm
Crystal: plexi, original "top-hat" from 70's
Bracelet: stainless steel, folded oyster
Buckle: folding clasp with flip-lock secure
Bezel: period correct MK3
Box: original
Papers: original guarantee certificate
Condition: excellent original condition
Price: On request
Additional Informations: For collectors seeking a Submariner with character and historical depth, this example with reference 1680 presents a truly exceptional opportunity. Produced in 1971 and sold in early 1973 according to the original certificate, this watch impresses not only with its gracefully aged appearance but above all with its rare and highly sought-after dial.
The warm, evenly developed brown hue of the originally black tritium dial is the result of natural aging - no artificial influence, no replacement parts, but honest, authentic patina.
A visual signature of time, found only on a handful of examples in this remarkable condition.
What makes this piece especially noteworthy is its extremely rare transitional dial: the upper portion displays the typical characteristics of the MK3 generation, while the lower half, including the red “SUBMARINER” designation above the white depth rating, aligns stylistically with the MK4 variant. A highly unusual combination, scarcely known even among seasoned collectors and rarely documented to date. It serves as yet another reminder that, despite a wealth of available literature, new and fascinating details continue to surface.
A core part of what makes this hobby so endlessly engaging.
Case and bracelet remain in authentic, original condition. The characteristic “Top Hat” plexiglass is intact, as is the early Twinlock crown system. The watch is completed by an Oyster fold-over bracelet Ref. 7836 with 280 end links – including the extremely rare “Pateted” diver extension, a legendary misprint that has survived on only a few known examples.
This vintage Submariner captivates not merely by age alone, but through its extraordinary details – uncompromisingly original, highly collectible, and with the kind of presence only true icons possess.
The warm, evenly developed brown hue of the originally black tritium dial is the result of natural aging - no artificial influence, no replacement parts, but honest, authentic patina.
A visual signature of time, found only on a handful of examples in this remarkable condition.
What makes this piece especially noteworthy is its extremely rare transitional dial: the upper portion displays the typical characteristics of the MK3 generation, while the lower half, including the red “SUBMARINER” designation above the white depth rating, aligns stylistically with the MK4 variant. A highly unusual combination, scarcely known even among seasoned collectors and rarely documented to date. It serves as yet another reminder that, despite a wealth of available literature, new and fascinating details continue to surface.
A core part of what makes this hobby so endlessly engaging.
Case and bracelet remain in authentic, original condition. The characteristic “Top Hat” plexiglass is intact, as is the early Twinlock crown system. The watch is completed by an Oyster fold-over bracelet Ref. 7836 with 280 end links – including the extremely rare “Pateted” diver extension, a legendary misprint that has survived on only a few known examples.
This vintage Submariner captivates not merely by age alone, but through its extraordinary details – uncompromisingly original, highly collectible, and with the kind of presence only true icons possess.


