Rolex Submariner Date 1680 Red Heavy Patina Vintage 1971 (Full-Set/Unpolished/Serviced)

Steel Submariner "Red" ref. 1680 with original unpolished case, heavy patina dial, punched papers, and box, circa 1971

Rolex Submariner

Rolex has been making watches since the early 1900s and is one of the most recognized names in the industry. The brand built its reputation on producing reliable, well-made tool watches that held up in real-world use. Rolex watches tend to hold their value better than most, and the company has a long track record of consistent quality and incremental refinement over the decades.

The Submariner is Rolex's dive watch, introduced in 1953, and it became the benchmark for the category. The reference 1680, produced from roughly 1969 to 1979, is particularly significant because it was the first Submariner to include a date function. Early examples of the 1680 featured red "SUBMARINER" text on the dial, which is where the "Red Sub" nickname comes from. That red printing was phased out around 1973 in favor of white text, making the earlier red-text versions more sought after among collectors today.

The caliber 1570 movement inside these watches is a proven, no-frills automatic movement that Rolex used across several references during this era. The 1680 as a whole sits at an interesting point in Rolex history, bridging the gap between the earlier non-date Submariners and the modern 16800 series that followed. It has a strong collector following, and well-preserved examples with original, unpolished cases and matching components are consistently in demand.

Key Details To Consider

This Rolex Submariner reference 1680, known among collectors as the "Red Sub" for its distinctive red "SUBMARINER" text on the dial, is a well-preserved example from 1971, placing its serial number in the 2.8 million range. It presents in used but good condition, retaining its factory case finish and original bevels throughout, never having been polished. The wear it shows is natural and consistent with its age, giving it an honest, unrestored character that collectors of vintage Rolex tend to appreciate.

The dial is original and period correct, showing a rich, even patina across the indices, margins, and hands. The lume plots display some minor signs of aging in areas, which is entirely expected and normal for a dial of this vintage. The overall spread of the patina is uniform and attractive rather than problematic. The bezel insert is also original and period correct, presenting in very nice condition for its age.

The oyster folded bracelet is in excellent condition and currently fitted with 11 links. Additional links are available and can be added upon request.

The movement, caliber 1570, was professionally serviced in July 2026 and has been pressure tested to 3ATM (30 meters). It is running properly. All case engravings are fully legible and intact.

This watch comes with its original Rolex box and the original punched Italian warranty booklet, which includes an Italian authorized dealer stamp, making it a well-documented example for its era.

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