The ref. 16800 Submariner takes an important spot in the history of Rolex diving watches: it’s the halfway point between the first Submariner Date (ref. 1680) and the well-known ref. 16610 from the 1990s. This transitional Sub combines the best of both worlds. 

The 16800 was introduced in 1978/1979 and discontinued a decade later. It was the first Submariner to have a sturdy sapphire crystal, while still sporting a matte dial with applied tritium markers. In other words, it combines the wearability and robustness of a modern Submariner paired with the character and aesthetics of a vintage one.

This 16800 dates back to 1982 and is in excellent condition with a thick and sharp stainless steel Oyster case, with faint chamfers, and an Oyster bracelet that is dated 1982 as well. The matte black dial dial has turned to a lovely charcoal gray color and the tritium indices, hands, and lume pip are in perfect condition, having turned a pleasing yellow color. The original bezel still features a deep black color together with some scratches here and there, which add character to this legendary toolwatch.