1982 Rolex Submariner Matte Dial Ref 16800
About This Watch:
The Rolex Submariner is one of the most iconic timepieces made, by any watch manufacturer, ever. Designed as a sports/dive watch, its classic styling remains the model for many modern watches in production today. The 16800 was one of the first Submariners to receive a sapphire crystal and a 300m water depth rating. Also introduced with this reference was the updated Calibre 3035 movement with quick-set date feature. The early 16800s, such as this one, were the last to have matte dials and painted tritium lume for the hour markers, instead of the later applied white gold surrounds.
The History:
The Rolex brand needs no introduction. Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, these visionary men set out to do what had not been successfully and reliably done before. Build a timepiece to be worn on the wrist that was both highly reliable, functional, and durable, as well as stylish. Wilsdorf’s dream was to create a watch that could accompany its owner through all facets of life and withstand any environment. His innovative approach and high standards for quality re-shaped the watch industry as a whole. It has made the Rolex name synonymous with quality, innovation, and elegance.
The Watch:
The Rolex Submariner 16800 has a 40mm stainless steel case with sapphire crystal. It features the Caliber 3035 movement with a 48-hour power reserve and a water resistance rating of 300 meters. The dial is matte black with circular, triangular, and rectangle-shaped tritium lumed hour markers and Mercedes-style tritium lumed hour and minute hands with a lollipop-style second hand and a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
The Details:
This 16800 dates to a 1982 production year. The case shows wear consistent with the age of this timepiece, as do the lugs, which are visible in the photographs. The bezel has some scratches between the 15 and 20 mark, as well as near the 30 mark, with the lumed tritium pip with color that matches the dial. The hour markers and hands have developed a cream-colored patina. The stainless steel 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end links is in good condition, with some wear present on the clasp. This listing is for the watch and bracelet only.
