Rolex Submariner 16808
The Rolex Submariner 16808 is a popular vintage Submariner model that blends Rolex’s dive-watch heritage with the luxury of 18ct yellow gold. It is considered a transitional model within the Submariner lineup, introducing a sapphire crystal and the reliable Calibre 3035 with quickset date, integrating modern elements into a classic design. The watch measures 40mm in diameter and comes with the distinctive ‘nipple’ dial in blue or black, a matching bezel and is fitted to an Oyster bracelet, ensuring both tool-watch ruggedness and an unmistakable glamour. As a vintage model with a unique design, the Rolex 16808 is a solid investment for collectors, especially given the increasing demand for gold Rolex watches.
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What Makes The Rolex Submariner 16808 a Good Investment?
The Submariner 16808 is widely considered a ‘transitional’ model that bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern reliability. Produced from the late 1970s to mid-1980s, the 16808 is one of the first all-gold Submariners, featuring significant upgrades over its predecessors. For instance, the 16808 was the first Submariner to feature the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and also introduced the quickset date function.
The prestige of the iconic Submariner, combined with the value of 18ct yellow gold, makes the Rolex 16808 a solid investment. As gold watches were produced in much lower quantities than steel models during that time, it naturally adds value to these vintage yellow gold Submariner models, making them attractive to collectors.
Additionally, early models of the Rolex 16808 featured the iconic “Nipple” dial (tritium markers with thick gold surrounds), which are highly sought after by vintage collectors. This exclusivity and low availability make it inherently more valuable in today's market.
Over the years, the 16808 has shown steady, long-term value appreciation, with the well-maintained models coming as ‘full sets’ fetching impressive prices.
Key Features Of Rolex 16808
Introduced in the 1970s, the Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16808 offers the best of both worlds by combining vintage charm with modern luxury, making it one of the most coveted vintage Submariner models.
Below are the key features that define its appeal and unique identity:
Gold Case & Bracelet
The 16808 is crafted from 18ct yellow gold and features a modern 40mm case. The use of solid gold enhances the watch's appeal and adds intrinsic value, contributing to its long-term desirability. The watch comes on a three-link Oyster bracelet crafted from 18ct yellow gold fitted with a secure clasp.
Dial & Bezel
The dial of the Submariner 16808 is usually available in black or ‘soleil’ blue. It has a unidirectional rotatable bezel with an aluminium insert, either in black or blue to match the dial. Early models of the Rolex 16808 are famous for their unique ‘nipple’ dials, featuring raised gold hour markers filled with tritium. Some 16808 models were also produced with ‘Serti’ dials, featuring diamond- and sapphire-set markers.
Movement
Powering the Sub 16808 is the automatic Calibre 3035 movement, which runs the quickset date function, allowing the date to be adjusted independently of the hour hand.
Notable Dial Variations of Rolex 16808
As a transitional model from vintage to modern, the 16808 was paired with several notable dial variations, each offering a unique aesthetic and identity.
1. ‘Nipple’ Dials
The earliest variants of the Rolex 16808 (1974-1984) featured the most coveted ‘nipple’ dials. These dials feature raised, conical Tritium hour markers set in yellow gold, similar to its predecessor, the 1680/8.
Blue ‘Nipple’ Dial: features a blue sunburst/soleil finish dial with a blue aluminium bezel, commonly called ‘Bluesy’.
Black ‘Nipple’ Dial: features a black dial and bezel, offering a high-contrast look.
Tropical Variants: the early black/blue dials of the ref. 16808 is known to turn ‘Tropical’ with the black fading to a bronze/brown hue and the blue turning to a deeper purple shade over time.
2. Baton Dials
By the mid 1980s, the Nipple dials were phased out in favour of modern, flat, luminous-filled baton or dot hour markers with white gold surrounds. These dials offered a cleaner, more modern look compared to the unique vintage aesthetic of the ‘Nipple’ dial.
3. Serti Dials
The ‘Serti’ dials are the luxury variants featuring diamond hour markers.
4. Special Variations
Rolex also produced the 16808 with rare Tiffany & Co.-signed dials, in which both the nipple and baton variants bear the ‘Tiffany’ stamp on the dial, significantly increasing their collectability.
Why Choose The Luxury Hut For Rolex Submariner 16808?
Discover a curated selection of pre-owned Rolex Submariner 16808 watches at The Luxury Hut. Choose from different dial variations, including the popular ‘Nipple’ and ‘Serti’ dials. Our competitive pricing eliminates the need to check elsewhere, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Each used Rolex 16808 we sell undergoes rigorous authentication and quality assessment by our in-house experts, ensuring you receive only genuine, certified timepieces in excellent condition.
Additionally, we provide a 12-month warranty, a 14-day easy return policy and our Authenticity Certificate for complete peace of mind.
The gold Submariner 16808 isn’t merely a timepiece but a valuable investment; hence, we ensure it meets the highest standards of condition, performance, and investment potential.
Enjoy free, insured shipping to your doorstep or visit us in-store with a prior appointment. As one of the most trusted destinations for buying used Rolex 16808 in London, we take great pride in offering our valued customers a hassle-free, confident shopping experience.
For further queries, reach out to us at 0207 242 9160.