Rolex Submariner 16800
The Rolex Submariner 16800 combines heritage design with technical advancements for lasting appeal. Find certified pre-owned Submariner 16800 at the best prices here. Shop now.
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History of Rolex Submariner 16800
The earliest dive watches from Rolex were designed for professional scuba divers and others who needed a legible, waterproof watch to wear underwater. These watches featured easy-to-read numerals and a waterproof case rated to 100m. Over time, this depth rating improved to 300m, as seen in current Submariner watches.
Since the Submariner was originally created for professional divers, it lacked a date mechanism on the dial, as there was no need for a date display while diving. However, given the mechanism's immense popularity among collectors of all lifestyles and professions, Rolex eventually added it to the series. The Rolex Submariner then also initially featured a bidirectional 60-minute bezel and an acrylic crystal.
Moving ahead, the Submariner started to transform into what we know today with the Ref. 5512, released in 1959. About a decade later, the first Submariner with a date mechanism and accompanying Cyclops lens was launched with the Ref. 1680. The reference 1680 was later replaced by its immediate successor, the Submariner 16800, which introduced numerous upgrades.
Arriving in the late 1970s, the Rolex Submariner 16800 is known as the ‘transitional Sub’, bridging the gap between a vintage and a modern Submariner. It came fitted with the higher-beat Calibre 3035, featuring the then-new Quickset date function. The power reserve also increased to 42 hours.
The reference 16800 was also the first Submariner to offer 300m of water resistance. Additionally, it was around this time that the bezel was upgraded to a safer unidirectional design that only rotates clockwise to prevent divers from undervaluing their impression times.
While early examples of the Submariner 16800 had matte dials with painted indices, the model adopted a modern aesthetic with a completely glossy dial, topped with hour markers in white gold surrounds, near the end of its production run.
All these minor feature updates were a huge step for the Submariner line and made the Submariner 16800 practical for everyday use.
Today, the Rolex 16800 remains a favourite among collectors for its ‘neo-vintage charm’, pairing new features with characteristics from the previous generation.
Key Features of the Submariner 16800
As a ‘transitional’ model, the Rolex Submariner 16800 integrates both modern and vintage design elements, offering collectors the best of both worlds. It is a beautiful everyday watch that can be worn all day and in a variety of situations.
As the 16800 marks a significant turning point in the Submariner’s history, it was updated with several modern features.
Here they are:
Features a robust 40mm stainless steel Oyster case with stronger crown guards to protect the screw-down crown
The bidirectional bezel was replaced with a safer unidirectional rotating bezel, designed to rotate clockwise to prevent accidental opening and underestimation of immersion times. It has markings for the first fifteen minutes and five-minute hash marks through the 60
The large winding crown with crown protectors helps avoid damage from accidental openings and bumps
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal replaced the acrylic crystal, providing clear, easy reading of all dial elements
Dial came with easy-to-see Mercedes hands and geometric hour markers coated in luminous material, allowing easy time reading underwater
Powered by the updated movement Calibre 3035 with a ‘quickset’ date function
The water resistance improved from 200m of its predecessor to 300m
Fitted with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet, featuring a wetsuit extension
Why Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner 16800?
As a discontinued model, the only way to buy the Rolex 16800 is through the pre-owned market. However, buying pre-owned comes with its own set of advantages, making owning the watch even more rewarding.
Buying a pre-owned Submariner 16800 provides great value for money, along with potential for appreciation as a vintage piece. The 16800 often represents a more accessible entry into vintage Rolex ownership, particularly for well-maintained examples with ‘full sets’ (including box & papers).
Moreover, buying pre-owned gives access to various dial variations of the Submariner 16800, including both matte and glossy dials, each carrying its own history and aesthetic. This variety allows you to pick a model that best suits your personal taste.
But you must always buy used Rolex watches, including the Submariner 16800, from a reputable dealer to ensure authenticity, transparency and peace of mind in your purchase.
How to Verify a Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner 16800?
The Submariner 16800 is a popular vintage model that has become a cult favourite among collectors and enthusiasts alike for its unmistakable vintage design elements, packed into a highly wearable package. However, this increased popularity also signals higher chances of fakes or replicas in the pre-owned market. Thus, buying a pre-owned Rolex Submariner 16800 requires a careful approach.
Below are a few key ways to verify Rolex Submariner 16800 watches:
Locate Serial & Model Numbers
For the Rolex 16800, the serial number (6-7 digits starting with 6 to 9 million or R series) and the model number are engraved between the lugs at the 6 and 12 o’clock positions. The engraving should be sharp, crisp and clean.
Check the Dial
Early 16800 models feature matte dials with painted, non-surrounded luminous plots, while the later ones have ‘glossy’ dials with white gold surrounds for the lume plots. Match the dial with the era of the serial number to verify. The original dials feature Tritium lume and are marked "Swiss-T<25" at the 6 o’clock position. The tritium lume should not glow bright green in the dark if it is original, and the printing on the dial should be perfectly sharp. Any inconsistency, spelling error, misalignment or font error indicates a fake.
Verify the Crystal & Case Back
The 16800 was the first Submariner to feature a sapphire crystal. While modern Rolex watches (after 2002) have the crown micro-etched at 6 o’clock, a genuine Ref. 16800 from the 80s will not have this unless it was replaced during a service. Moreover, authentic Rolex Submariners, including the 16800, feature a solid stainless steel case back with no logos or engravings. Anything otherwise is a red flag.
Inspect the Bezel & Bracelet
The bezel should rotate smoothly yet firmly, without any form of hindrance. The correct bracelet type for the Submariner 16800 is an Oyster bracelet. The bracelet clasp has a date code indicating the year of production (for instance, ‘G’ for 1982). Also, examine the bracelet links for stretch, a common sign of wear in older models. While minimal stretch is fine, excessive looseness impacts the value and comfort.
Things to consider when buying a pre-owned Rolex Submariner 16800
The Rolex 16800 is a highly-regarded transitional model that remains a sought-after choice in the pre-owned market.
When purchasing, here is a list of all the factors you must consider to ensure authenticity, value, and long-term collectability.
Dial Details
The Submariner 16800 was produced in two different dials. The early models (1979-1984) had matte dials, while the later models had glossy dials with white gold surrounds. The matte dial is more desirable and rarer.
Tritium Patina
The 16800 used tritium lume. Over time, it turns into a creamy yellow or beige colour (patina). If the lume is stark white, it means it has been replaced by ‘serviced hands’ or a ‘serviced dial’, lowering its collector value. Original well-aged lume on a Submariner 16800 is more collectable.
Case Condition
The 16800 is a vintage Rolex, and its case is a major value driver. Avoid over-polished cases and check for sharp lugs and defined edges. A lightly or unpolished case is always preferable as it retains the original lines.
Bezel Insert
The bezel insert on the original 16800 features ‘fat font’ numerals. Made of aluminium, the anodised insert can fade to a bluish or grey hue, known as ‘ghost bezel’, which is highly desirable. However, look for scratches or dents, as well as an aftermarket bezel insert, which may negatively impact the value.
Check the Movement
The 16800 was the first Submariner to feature a ‘quickset’ date function, making it very practical for daily use. Ensure the quickset mechanism works smoothly. Also, confirm if the movement is original. Ask for service records to ensure the 3035 movement is accurate and running smoothly.
Bracelet Link
The watch is paired with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet. Check for severe stretch between links, indicating heavy wear. Also, ensure that the clasp code aligns with the production period.
The Right Seller
The pre-owned market is filled with fake watches made from mismatched parts. It is essential to always buy used Rolex watches, including 16800 models, from reputable dealers specialising in vintage Rolex to guarantee quality and authenticity.
Box & Papers
While not fully essential, a ‘full set’ can increase the desirability and collectability of the watch. The list includes the original box, warranty card, manuals, tags and other accessories that came with the watch at the time of purchase.
Why Choose The Luxury Hut To Buy Rolex Submariner 16800?
Discover the best quality pre-owned Rolex Submariner 16800 at The Luxury Hut, where our commitment to excellence shines through in every timepiece we sell. We emphasise affordability without compromising on luxury with our selection of 16800 watches, ensuring that prestige and elegance are accessible to all.
Trust our industry-leading expertise to provide only authentic and 100% certified watches, ensuring peace of mind with every transaction. For further assurance, we also provide a 12-month warranty, a 14-day easy return policy and our Authenticity Certificate.
Our dedicated team is always on hand to offer personalised advice, making your journey to finding a used Rolex 16800 seamless and enjoyable. We aim to sell pre-owned Submariner 16800 watches with their original box and paperwork, where possible. If either is not available, it is clearly stated in the description and reflected in the price.
If you buy the watches online, we’ll send them to your doorstep via secure, insured delivery at no cost. Or, if you’d like to see and buy it in person, schedule an in-store appointment. The Luxury Hut has a solid reputation for excellent customer service, and our experts are very happy to talk you through any questions or issues you may have.
Just give us a call on 0207 242 9160.
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