An automatic, stainless steel, Rolex Submariner with date.This watch could be considered the most iconic, and certainly the most recognizable watch in the Rolex stable. Since its inception into the Rolex line up in 1953 this watch has been worn and loved by deep sea divers, members of the military, movie stars and today's watch collectors. This version marked a fairly large design change with the continuation of the applied circular edge around to the hour indices that were introduced on the 16800.
This reference is quite rare and unusual in the more 'modern' Rolex Submariner, or any reference for that matter, field of production. It was introduced circa 1987, remained in the line for around two years, was never mentioned in Rolex literature and seems to have many collectors confused about its place in the evolution of the Rolex Submariner. The 16800 became this, the 168000. Perhaps the biggest change here was the use of a new type of stainless steel. Out went the 316L, in came the 904L. The case remained the same, bezel insert the same, bracelet etc.
The dial appears to have two variants; this the Mark I; a more matte finish and a non-serif font used. The dial in this watch is very attractive for the fact it is not quite as glossy as they went on to become. It is almost like a mid way point from the matte to the glossy. Being that tritium luminous material is still being used here, the color is already aging beautifully and is all over consistent and a rich cafe latte and will continue to only get better looking with age. The hands are original, and under UV lighter everything matches and holds the light. There is some wear to the dial around the top, but this cannot be seen in normal light, or without a loop. It is being mentioned for transparency.
The watch is powered by a Rolex, Swiss made, twenty seven jewel automatic calibre 3035 movement that powered the majority of all Rolex models since its launch, from the Datejust to the Submariner. Among a number of improvements was the extension to the power reserve form the caliber 1570 from forty two hours to fifty, made possible thanks to a fast-rotating barrel. It is regarded as one of the best calibers produced by the company, and testament to that is the fact it remained in use for around twelve years.
The case is not as you would expect to find with a tool watch now coming up for almost thirty five years old. It is polished, which is very common with watches from this period, but only very, very lightly with the top of the lugs seemingly having not been touched, and all the chamfers very strong on all four lugs. The bezel insert is correct and original to the watch. The pip set in the arrow at the sixty minute mark has already turned a warm coffee colour, and looks great sitting atop the watch. The bracelet is also all original. Marked 93150 with 580 end links. It should be pointed out that it is worn, and lightly stretched, but not polished also and original to the watch, with diver extension, and two removable links in place. The case serial number starts with R243XXX for having been made in 1987, and is nearer to the start of this serial range.
Overall, this is an excellent watch, and as far as more contemporary Submariner models go, soon to be a future classic and rare oddball.
