Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800 Matte Dial
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1982
Maker / issuer
RolexThis Rolex Submariner reference 16800 is a stainless steel dive watch manufactured in 1982. It features a matte black dial with tritium lume plots that have developed a golden yellow patina.
The watch is powered by the Caliber 3035 movement, which incorporates a quickset date function. Notable construction elements include a sapphire crystal, which increased the depth rating of the model to 1000 feet, and a unidirectional click-spring bezel. The case, measuring 40mm, is accompanied by a Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces. The date window displays white numerals, including open 6 and 9 characters.
The watch is identified by the serial number 72XXXXX. This specific configuration, with the matte dial and sapphire crystal, represents a transitional period in the Submariner line produced between 1979 and early 1984.
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
- Dive watch
- Brand
- Rolex
- Serial
- 72XXXXX
- Material
- Stainless Steel
- Movement
- Caliber 3035
- Reference
- 16800
- Bracelet model
- Rolex 93150
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Date wheel numerals
- Open 6 and 9
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
- Year of manufacture
- 1982
Design
- Dial and Hands
- The watch features a matte black dial with tritium lume plots. The source states that the lume plots exhibit a golden yellow patina and show no degradation under UV light. The original tritium hands also feature patina that matches the dial, although the steel of the hands shows evidence of oxidation. The dial includes the date function with a cyclops lens over the aperture. The white date wheel contains open 6 and 9 numerals.
- Visible features
- • Tritium lume plots exhibit golden yellow patina • Bezel insert features a caramel-colored pearl • Date wheel displays open 6 and 9 numerals • Oyster bracelet retains 12 links
- Case and Bracelet
- The 40mm stainless steel case is described as featuring factory chamfers on the lugs. The auction description reports that the case is believed to remain unpolished. The case back retains its original factory finish and shows light wear. The watch is fitted with a Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces, marked with a "G" date code. The bracelet consists of 12 links, which the source describes as having minimal stretch, and is sized to accommodate a wrist up to 7.5 inches. The unidirectional bezel insert is noted for its deep black color and minimal wear.
- Movement and Functionality
- The reference 16800 utilizes the Rolex Caliber 3035 movement. This movement introduced the quickset date function to the Submariner line. The adoption of the sapphire crystal in this reference allowed the model to increase its depth rating from 660 feet to 1000 feet. The bezel mechanism on this reference is a unidirectional click-spring system, introduced to improve timing security for diving operations. The auction description reports that the watch has been serviced and is maintaining time.
Identification
- Reference
- 16800
- Serial number
- 72XXXXX
- 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: Unverified if case remains unpolished
- Research required: Tritium hands show oxidation