Rolex Submariner 1680

Details

Make: Rolex

Model: Submariner

Reference: 1680

Year: 1975

Movement: Automatic calibre

Box and papers: Box & Watch Register Certificate

Case: 40mm steel

Dial: Black

Bracelet/Strap: Oyster bracelet

Condition: Vintage, excellent

Serviced: May 2025

Warranty: 6 month RHW warranty

Return period: 3 day return

Price: £8,500

The Vintage Sub That Started It All

The Submariner reference 1680 holds a special place in Rolex’s history. Introduced in the late 1960s, it was the first Submariner to feature a date complication, marking a pivotal shift in the model’s evolution from pure tool watch to a luxury sports icon. Its bold, no-nonsense design, robust Oyster case, and classic rotating bezel cemented its place as a go-to dive watch for professionals and collectors alike.

This particular 1975 example is a time capsule of vintage Rolex DNA. With all-original condition preserved, including correct dial, handset and bezel insert, it’s the kind of honest vintage piece that’s becoming increasingly scarce on the market.

Why You’ll Love It

There’s something incredibly special about owning a vintage Submariner that hasn’t been modified or polished into oblivion. This 1680 offers exactly that—a watch with soul and integrity.

• Original condition. This is vintage Rolex as it should be: untouched, correct, and full of character.

• Features the legendary matte black dial, with its tritium lume aged to a warm, creamy patina, giving it the kind of charm you just can’t fake.

• Serviced in May 2025, it comes with a fresh bill of health and is running exactly as it should—ready to wear, ready to appreciate.

• At £8,500, it offers phenomenal value for a true vintage Submariner with all the hallmarks collectors look for in this reference.

Whether you’re looking for your first vintage Rolex or adding a significant piece to your collection, this 1680 delivers with heritage, aesthetics, and authenticity.

Iconic Status

The Submariner 1680 has earned its legendary status in the Rolex canon. As the first Submariner with a date window, it became the blueprint for generations of Submariners that followed.

Notable wearers of vintage Submariners like the 1680 include:

• Steve McQueen, whose love of rugged Rolex watches helped define his style legacy

• Robert Redford, frequently photographed with a vintage Sub on his wrist in the 1970s

• Philippe Cousteau, oceanographer and filmmaker, who wore early Submariners during expeditions

The 1680 is a watch that bridges Rolex’s tool-watch origins with its emerging status as a luxury icon—making it one of the most desirable references for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Ready to Make It Yours?

Visit us on the High Street at our new store inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey.

This Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 from 1975 is available now for £8,500.

We offer a range of secure and flexible payment options:

• Apple Pay and all major debit and credit cards directly on our website or on your mobile device

• Bank transfers

• Secure email payment links

• In-person card payments available in-store and by private appointment

• Book a private appointment via our website

As with all our watches, this Rolex has been checked against the Watch Register and is guaranteed to be free of theft or loss records. A Watch Register certificate is included.

A genuine, unpolished piece of Rolex history—serviced, authentic, and increasingly rare. Make this classic Submariner yours today.

Visit us in person at our new boutique:

We are inside Martin & Martin, 30 High Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey

Private viewings are also available to book via our website.

Follow us on Instagram @robinhenrywatches for the latest arrivals, or visit www.robinhenrywatches.com to browse and shop online.

Watch exclusive content filmed in Guernsey on our YouTube channel: Robin Henry Watches.

Every watch we sell (excluding those with a manufacturer’s guarantee) includes our own 6-month warranty — your peace of mind, built in. We stand behind the quality of every timepiece.

We also offer a no-quibble, three-day return policy on all purchases (excluding special orders).

Payment options: Bank transfer, card, or cash.

Questions? Just email us: [email protected]

Robin Henry Watches

Luxury vintage watches, curated in Guernsey since 2021