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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch with date

Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680

Partially verified

This Rolex Submariner, reference 1680, is an automatic stainless steel wristwatch dated to 1979. It features a black dial identified in the provided description as a Mk. II version, notable for being a "White Dial" variant, distinguished by its white lettering. The timepiece is housed in a 40mm stainless steel case. The dial displays tritium lume plots, while the metallic date wheel features open 6s and 9s. It is fitted with an original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet equipped with 580 end pieces. The watch has been professionally polished to maintain its dimensions and chamfers. The bezel insert is a later Rolex service component featuring a luminova pearl. The watch has been recently serviced and is currently operational.

Front view of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680, showing the matte black dial, cyclops lens, and Oyster bracelet.
Front view of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680, showing the matte black dial, cyclops lens, and Oyster bracelet. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Self-winding wristwatch with date
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1680
Catalogue / lot identifier
RLXSUB791680-9
Source-reported date
1979
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
59XXXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Bracelet

The watch features a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter. The auction description reports that the case has undergone professional polishing in the past to preserve factory-intended dimensions, angles, and chamfers. It displays light signs of wear consistent with previous use.

The timepiece is fitted with an original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet incorporating 580 end pieces. The bracelet comprises 11 links and is noted to have minimal stretch. The black rotating bezel insert is an OEM Rolex service replacement that includes a luminova pearl.

Evidence for this section
  • “The strong and thick case is believed to have been professionally polished in the past”
  • “The black bezel insert is a later OEM Rolex service insert with a luminova pearl”
  • “The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces is in excellent condition”

Dial and Hands

The watch features a matte black dial described as a Mk. II configuration. It contains tritium lume plots that have developed a creamy patina. The original tritium hands have aged to a darker tone than the dial markers and exhibit minor superficial cracking when viewed under UV light.

The date window is positioned at 3 o'clock and features a metallic date wheel with open-style numerals for the 6 and 9. The dial remains clean with no reported damage.

Evidence for this section
  • “The original matte black Mk. II dial is in exceptional original condition”
  • “The tritium lume plots have aged to a lovely creamy coloration”
  • “The metallic date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's”

Condition and Attribution

The object is identified as a 1979 Rolex Submariner reference 1680. It belongs to the series of watches featuring white dial lettering, distinguishing it from the earlier red-text variants produced between 1969 and 1975.

The auction description reports that the movement has been recently serviced and is keeping time. The piece is provided without original box or documentation.

Evidence for this section
  • “It is the first ref. 1680 with the word "Submariner" in white lettering.”
  • “The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber installed in this 1979 example?
  • Can the polishing history be further verified through authorized service records?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
BrandRolex“Brand Rolex”
Reference1680“Model 1680”
Serial Number59XXXXX“Serial 59XXXXX”
Case Size40mm“Millimeters 40”
BraceletRolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet“Bracelet Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces”
Dial VersionMk. II“The original matte black Mk. II dial is in exceptional original condition”
BezelService insert“The black bezel insert is a later OEM Rolex service insert”

Visible details

  • Cyclops lens over the date display at 3 o'clock
  • Tritium hour and minute hands showing minor superficial cracking
  • Rotating black bezel insert with luminous pearl
  • Oyster bracelet secured with a flip-lock clasp

Research qualifications

  • Bezel insert is a non-original later service replacement
  • Case polishing history is based on belief rather than confirmed documentation

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex Submariner رفرنس 1680

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 94c62c6262

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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