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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Diver's wristwatch

Rolex Submariner reference 1680 wristwatch

Partially verified

This stainless steel Rolex Submariner reference 1680 wristwatch dates to circa 1979 and features a 40 mm case with crown guards and a rotating black bezel. The black dial presents luminous geometric hour markers, Mercedes hands, a magnified date aperture at 3 o'clock, and depth ratings of 660 ft=200 m. The source reports that the watch is from the estate of a naval commander and flight surgeon, with the case back engraved 'C.H. Bercier Jr. M.D. U.S.N. 250-64-4620'. The watch is fitted with a stainless steel bracelet measuring 7 inches.

Dial and bezel of the Rolex Submariner ref. 1680
Dial and bezel of the Rolex Submariner ref. 1680 — Hess Fine Auctions. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Wristwatch · Diver's wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
1680
Catalogue / lot identifier
11040
Source-reported date
Circa 1979
Country
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
5992086

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

Construction and Physical Characteristics

The timepiece is identified as a stainless steel Rolex Submariner reference 1680. It features a 40 mm stainless steel case with lug dimensions of 47 mm (tip-to-tip) and a 20 mm lug width. The case back is engraved with the text: 'C.H. Bercier Jr. M.D. U.S.N. 250-64-4620'.

The watch is fitted with a stainless steel three-link bracelet measuring 7 inches. The total weight of the watch is reported as 118 grams.

Evidence for this section
  • “Diameter: 40mm”
  • “Lugtip to Lugtip: 47mm”
  • “Inside Lugs: 20mm”
  • “All Words on Case and Case Back: C.H. Bercier Jr. M.D. U.S.N. 250-64-4620”
  • “Band/Bracelet Length: 7in”
  • “Total Watch Weight: 118g”

Dial and Bezel Configuration

The black dial features geometric luminous markers and 'Mercedes' style hands. It includes a magnified date aperture at the 3 o'clock position showing the numeral 28. The dial is signed 'SWISS' and bears the text: 'Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 660t=200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified'.

The watch is equipped with a black rotating bezel insert that includes a 60-minute graduated scale and a luminescent pip at the 12 o'clock position.

Evidence for this section
  • “All Words on Dial: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 660t=200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified”
  • “Black rotating bezel insert with a 60-minute graduated scale and luminescent pip at 12 o'clock”

Condition and Documentation

The auctioneer reports the movement is running, noting a suggestion for an overhaul at the buyer's expense. The crystal exhibits one visible scuff near the date window, with no chips or cracks reported. The case, bracelet, and buckle are described as showing light wear.

The source states the watch has been serviced at Rolex, though no supporting documentation, service papers, original boxes, or manuals are included with the lot.

Evidence for this section
  • “Movement is running for optimum timekeeping accuracy we suggest an overhaul at buyers expense”
  • “Has been serviced at Rolex but we do not have the papers.”
  • “Crystal is clean one visible scuff seen near the date window no chips or cracks seen.”
  • “Box and Papers: None”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber for the provided serial number?
  • Does any verifiable documentation exist to support the claimed Rolex service history?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Rolex Submariner reference 1680 wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference1680“Historic Rolex 1680 Submariner”
Serial number5992086“Serial: 5992086”
Circa date1979“Circa: 1979”
Case diameter40mm“Diameter: 40mm”
Case metalStainless Steel“Case Metal: Stainless Steel”
Case and case back inscriptionC.H. Bercier Jr. M.D. U.S.N. 250-64-4620“All Words on Case and Case Back: C.H. Bercier Jr. M.D. U.S.N. 250-64-4620”
Dial inscriptionRolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 660t=200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified“All Words on Dial: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 660t=200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified”
Production PeriodCirca 1979“Circa: 1979”

Visible details

  • Black dial with triangular, rectangular, and circular luminous hour markers
  • Magnified date aperture at the 3 o'clock position displaying the numeral 28
  • Black rotating bezel insert with a 60-minute graduated scale and luminescent pip at 12 o'clock
  • Fitted stainless steel three-link Oyster-style bracelet
  • Dial signed 'SWISS' below the 6 o'clock marker

Research qualifications

  • The auctioneer notes no box or papers are included despite claiming prior Rolex service
  • Movement caliber is not stated in the catalog description

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

Consulted source

At Auction: Historic Rolex 1680 Submariner From Estate of Vietnam Commander Mens Running Wrist Watch

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 9d8c050926

Terms in this record

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

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