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 #		RLXSUB1680082-4
Brand		Rolex
Style		Submariner
Model		16800
Serial		72XXXXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		Matte Black
Millimeters		40
Bracelet		Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 593 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The strong case retains thick and symmetrical lugs with slight chamfers and shows honest signs of use with minimal evidence of being previously polished. The original bezel insert remains deep black, with the original tritium pearl intact and some elements of honest wear and age present. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces retains 12 links that show almost no stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in virtually flawless condition, with no imperfections present. The tritium lume plots have achieved a robust golden coloration and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands have aged to a lighter ivory patina and show no degradation when inspected under UV light. The white date wheel is original with "open" 6's and 9's.