The 1680 Red Submariner remains a cult reference amongst vintage Rolex enthusiasts, with the Mk1 dial variant being the top echelon of Red Subs. And yes, these details matter when it comes to the most serious in collecting. I correlate it to a sea of resumes and what separates you apart from the other candidates. This Mk1 happens to check all the boxes even for the most discerning of them. 

Produced circa 1969, the Mk1 Red 1680’s accounts for a very small percentage of the overall production. Otherwise known as Long F’s, where the F in the depth rating extends over the T, making this nuance only seen in the very earliest 1680 Red Subs. Made only for a one year window and many were used with their intended design in mind, most of the remaining Mk1’s is not seen in this condition.

This exceptional example certainly sets it apart from the rest. The tritium luminous on this strikingly attractive dial has aged to a warm cream patina. The beautiful and original hands set that is perfectly matching embodies a natural consistency to the rest of the watch. The unpolished 2.1m serial case with its sharp factory definitions implies it did not live a harsh life. It’s paired with the correct date code 3/69 Rolex 7206 rivet bracelet with 80 end links.

Most interestingly enough a light engraving of “75505”, possibly from factory or early in its life, is still clearly legible on the caseback.

To find an unpolished Mk1 Red Submariner of this caliber is very uncommon and believe me, it makes your resume standout amongst the rest.

(Item: INVDBV_3)