Rolex Submariner 1680

Rolex Submariner Date Black Matte Nipple Dial Ref. 1680 18k Yellow Gold w Papers

Basic Info Listing code : QNWVD8 Brand : Rolex Model : Submariner Date Reference number : 1680 Movement : Automatic Case material : Yellow gold Year of production : 1971 Condition : Used (Very good) Scope of delivery : Original papers, no original box Gender : Men's watch/Unisex Location : Spain, Madrid Price : 37,500 Availability : Item is in stock Caliber Movement : Automatic Caliber/movement : 1570 Base caliber : 1570 Power reserve : 48 h Number of jewels : 26 Case Case material : Yellow gold Case diameter : 40 mm Water resistance : 20 ATM Bezel material : Steel Crystal : Plexiglass Dial : Black Dial numerals : No numerals Functions Date 1971 Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 in 18K yellow gold with Papers Brand: Rolex Model: Submariner Reference: 1680 Serial: 2821xxx Year: 1971 Case material: 18K yellow gold Case dimensions: 40mm excluding crown Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date Caliber: Rolex cal. 1570 Automatic Strap: It will come fitted to an unworn handmade leather strap with golden buckle Crystal: Acrylic Accessories: Punched guarantee papers and wallet Service: Unknown “Gold Standard — The Submariner’s Most Audacious Expression” Introduced at the end of the 1960s, the Rolex Submariner reference 1680 marked a turning point for the line, becoming the first Submariner to feature a date complication. While most collectors associate the 1680 with stainless steel—especially the famed “Red Sub”—Rolex also produced far rarer solid gold variants, transforming a pure tool watch into an unapologetic statement of luxury. In 18k yellow gold, the Submariner became something entirely different: still capable, still purposeful, but now infused with weight, warmth, and prestige that only precious metal can deliver. Gold Submariners from this era were never common. They were expensive, bold, and produced in comparatively tiny numbers, often worn hard or later melted, making surviving examples scarce—especially those that retain their original matte dials and correct period details. The combination of a matte black dial, gilt printings, and applied gold “nipple” hour markers represents one of the most distinctive and charismatic configurations Rolex ever put into production. The example offered here is a 1971 Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 in 18k yellow gold, preserved in outstanding condition. The matte black dial is flawless, with crisp gilt printing and beautifully aged “nipple” hour markers that have developed a soft, creamy patina. The original handset has aged a few shades lighter, a completely natural and reassuring sign of originality. The 18k yellow gold case is exceptionally strong, showing thick lugs, sharp bevels, and factory-standard brushing, with only light, honest wear. All gold hallmarks on the case back remain perfectly legible—a detail rarely seen so clearly on gold sports Rolexes. The original bezel insert is mint, completing an unusually coherent and well-preserved package. Adding to its appeal, the watch is accompanied by its original punched papers and wallet, grounding this already rare Submariner in solid provenance. This is not just a gold Sub—it is a correct, early, and beautifully preserved example of one of Rolex’s boldest statements, where professional pedigree and precious metal converge.