Heritage Narrative
The Rolex Submariner 1680, introduced in the late 1960s, marked a major milestone in the model’s history — it was the first Submariner to feature a date complication, forever transforming the tool diver into a more versatile daily companion. Produced through the 1970s, the 1680 combined vintage charm with the rugged engineering that made Rolex the benchmark for professional dive watches.
This example, serial 238XXXX from the early 1970s, features a Mark IV dial, distinguished by its characteristic open 6s and feet-first depth rating. The matte black dial with tritium lume, period-correct fat-font bezel insert, and acrylic crystal with cyclops lend the watch an unmistakably vintage warmth. Powered by the Calibre 1575 movement, it offers chronometer precision and decades of reliability. Offered in excellent condition and accompanied by box and booklet, this piece represents one of the most collectible iterations of the Submariner Date line.
Technical Specifications
Reference:
1680
Year:
Early 1970s (Serial 238XXXX)
Movement:
Rolex Calibre 1575, self-winding mechanical, chronometer-certified, date function, hacking seconds, ~48 h power reserve
Case:
40 mm stainless steel Oyster case, screw-down crown, domed acrylic crystal
Bezel:
Stainless steel unidirectional rotatable bezel with black aluminum insert, 60-minute scale
Crystal:
Acrylic with Cyclops magnifier over date
Dial / Hands:
Matte black Mark IV dial with tritium luminous plots and white text (“feet first” depth rating), matching tritium hands
Bracelet / Clasp:
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet (7 ¾ in length) with folding clasp
Water resistance:
200 m / 660 ft (factory rating at time of production)
Condition & Inclusions
Overall grade:
Excellent—case strong, dial original and well preserved, bracelet tight
Service status:
Inspected; running within vintage chronometer tolerances
Set:
Includes Rolex presentation box and booklet
Shipping & Logistics
Stored off-site and shipped fully insured within 1–3 business days
Worldwide shipping available; buyer responsible for any import duties or taxes
Shipping & Returns
Complimentary insured worldwide shipping and a 14-day return window (watch must be returned in the same condition supplied). Every piece is authenticated, time-graphed, and prepared for secure transit.
