Vintage Submariner

Rolex Red Submariner Model 1680

A classic 1973 Submariner 1680 with the word Submariner printed in red on the dial, known to collectors as the Red Submariner.

At a Glance

Family: Submariner
Reference: 1680
Year: 1973
Dial: "Submariner" in red
Date: Yes
Crown guards: Yes

The Story

In certain world markets the Submariner 1680 dial was available with the word Submariner printed in red, up until 1980. From 1974 the model was also offered with all white text on the dial, which makes red dial examples like this 1973 watch especially distinctive.

Model 1680, launched in 1966, was the first Submariner with a date. In the early 1980s it was renumbered 16800.

Submariner Timeline

1953
Submariner introducedThe first wristwatch designed for scuba diving. Early models had no crown guards and no date.
1959
Crown guards arriveProtective crown guards were introduced on the no-date Submariner model 5512, which ceased production in the early 1970s.
1966
Model 1680, the first dateModel 1680 was the first Submariner with a date.
1974
All white dial textThe Submariner 1680 became available with all white text printed on the dial.
1980
Red Submariner dials endIn certain world markets, dials with the word Submariner printed in red were available until 1980.
Early 1980s
Renumbered 16800The Submariner model 1680 was renumbered 16800.