Year: Circa 1969
Reference No: 1680
Movement No: D534’835
Case No: 2’294’484; inside caseback stamped “1680, III.69”
Model Name: Submariner “Red Sub”, MK II
Material: Stainless Steel
Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1570, 26 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet stamped “7836”, endlinks stamped “280”, max length 200mm
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster deployant folding clasp stamped “3.69”

Launched in 1967, Rolex Submariner reference 1680 was the first Submariner model to be fitted with a date function. In production until the end of the 1970s, the model presents a notable evolution, with earlier examples produced until 1976 featuring red lettering for the Submariner designation “Red Sub”, and later examples with white lettering instead. Amongst these early “Red Sub”, collectors and scholars were able to identity a total of 6 variations starting from MK I to MK III with a “meters” first depth rating, followed by a transition of “feet” first depth rating seen from MK IV onwards. Extremely collectible, the present “Red Sub” featuring a MK II dial is made even more attractive by its stunning patina, aged evenly into a rich brown tropical hue surrounded by creamed luminous plots, the vintage appeal of this specimen is absolutely delightful. Bearing a 2.29 million serial and inside caseback stamped third quarter of 1969, the present MK II ticks all the boxes with period correct characteristics such as the use of thinner white font, open 6s in the meter first depth rating, red print applied on white plot for SUBMARINER, as well as the long F in “FT”. The rarity of this variation is apparent when considering that the total amount of MK II and III dials combined represents about only 6% of the total number of ref. 1680 appeared on the market. Boasting a strong case and preserved in an attractive condition, it is also worth noting that the fat font bezel insert has faded into a grey blue hue adding vintage charm to this 53 years old Submariner.