1982 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 16800) Matte Dial

Beloved by both the vintage enthusiast and neo-vintage aficionados, the reference 16800 Submariner is one of the most important Rolex dive watches produced. The transitional foundation of the ref. 16800 makes this watch special, as it is both the last of the truly vintage Submariners and the platform for the modern submariner we see today.

Role

Introduced in late 1979, the ref. 16800 brought us a litany of improvements to the Submariner line. First of which is a sapphire crystal, which helped bring the depth rating from 660ft to an impressive 1000ft. The uni-directional click-spring bezel made its first appearance on the Submariner line as well, making the Submariner a more secure and safe timing apparatus for divers. Along with these external enhancements, the movement was drastically upgraded to the Cal. 3035, which featured a quickset function for the first time in the Submariner line.

The first iteration of the ref. 16800 featured a matte black dial similar to that of the acrylic crystal Submariner ref. 1680 that preceded it. These early matte dial examples were only produced for a brief period, about 4 years total until early 1984. In late 1984 Rolex switched the dial design to the more recognizable by modern standards glossy dial with white gold surrounds markers. Both executions are cherished by collectors, but it is the earlier matte dial version that offers a vintage aesthetic with modern functionality that is the most desirable amongst this transitional reference.

Stock #		RLXSUB1680082-2
Brand		Rolex
Style		Submariner
Model		16800
Serial		71XXXXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		Matte Black
Millimeters		40
Bracelet		Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 593 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case retains thick and symmetrical lugs that have been gently polished in the past and show light wear from use. The original bezel insert does exhibit some honest signs of use and has taken on a deep navy blue color hue, the lume pearl does remain fully intact and has achieved a rich caramel color. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces retains 11 links show some stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in virtually flawless condition, exhibiting no damage or visible elements of age. The tritium lume plots have achieved a lovely creamy patina with no degradation present under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, under UV light inspection the hands exhibit some minor surface lume loss and cracking but remain stable. The white date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.