Rolex Submariner Date Reference 1680 'Red Sub'
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1971
Maker / issuer
RolexThis Rolex Submariner Date, reference 1680, is a stainless steel self-winding wristwatch from circa 1971. Known in the collector market as the 'Red Sub,' it is distinguished by the word 'Submariner' printed in red ink on the dial.
This model was the first Submariner to incorporate a date function, featuring a cyclops lens on the crystal. The dial is a 'MK4' variant with Tritium luminous plots showing a consistent patina. The watch retains an unpolished stainless steel case with factory lug chamfers and remains fitted to a correct Oyster bracelet with a fliplock clasp. The rotating bezel insert is period-correct and exhibits a charcoal-toned fade from previous use.
The watch is presented in a condition characterized by signs of wear, including minor impressions and blemishes, while maintaining its original finish.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Self-winding dive watch with date
- Dating
- circa 1971
- Reference
- 1680
- Model Name
- Submariner Date
- Dial Feature
- Red text
- Dial Variant
- MK4
- Bracelet Type
- Oyster
- Case Condition
- Unpolished
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Visible features
- • Red text on the dial reading 'SUBMARINER' • Cyclops magnifying lens positioned over the date aperture • Patinated Tritium luminous markers and handset • Rotating bezel insert with charcoal-toned fading
- Case and Bracelet
- The stainless steel case is described as unpolished, retaining its factory-applied lug chamfers. The exterior shows impressions and blemishes consistent with regular use over time. The watch is secured to the wrist via a stainless steel Oyster bracelet equipped with a fliplock clasp, identified by the vendor as the correct pairing for this reference.
- Dial and Configuration
- The watch features a black dial designated by the vendor as a 'MK4' variant. Its most prominent characteristic is the red printing of the name 'Submariner' located above the depth rating. The dial markers and the hands contain Tritium, which has developed a uniform patina throughout. A date function is present, positioned at the three o'clock mark and magnified by the characteristic Rolex cyclops lens on the crystal. The bezel insert is noted to be period-correct and displays a charcoal color resulting from exposure.
- Production and Classification
- The reference 1680 represents a significant period for the Rolex Submariner model line, marking the integration of a date complication into a tool watch. This design change was intended to increase the commercial appeal of the watch beyond professional diving. Attributed to approximately 1971, this particular example is often classified by collectors as a 'Red Sub' due to the distinctive color of the dial text.
Identification
- Reference
- 1680
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The 'circa 1971' dating is an estimate provided by the vendor.
- Research required: The specific 'MK4' dial identification is a claim made by the vendor.