Rolex
1982 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 16800) Matte Dial
The Rolex Submariner ref. 16800 is a transitional piece that combines the best elements of both the vintage and modern Rolex Submariners into one complete package. The most coveted of the ref. 16800 are the matte dial variants that were in production from 1979-1984. Apart from a short production run, the early ref. 16800 was the only matte dial Rolex sports watch to also feature a sapphire crystal, before the reference changed to be equipped with a glossy dial with white gold surrounds in late 1984. These early matte dial versions of the ref. 16800 have the vintage aesthetic of the Rolex Submariner models of the 70s but with massively upgraded cases and movements, and for that reason, the ref. 16800 is one of the most sought-after standard production Submariners Rolex has ever produced.
The Rolex Submariner ref. 16800 was first introduced in late 1979 and was the first Rolex Submariner model to include a sapphire crystal, a unidirectional click-spring bezel, and the Rolex cal. 3035 quickest movement, all of which cumulate to one of the most drastic technical updates in Submariner history model to model.
| Stock # | RLXSUB8216800-3 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Submariner | |
| Model | 16800 | |
| Serial | 71XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex Oyster 93150 Bracelet W/ 593 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case has been lightly polished in the past and retains very thick lugs that show light signs of honest use. The original bezel insert remain deep black with nominal signs of use and retains its tritium pearl that matches the dial patina nicely. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces retains 11 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black dial is in virtually flawless condition, showing no age or damage. The tritium lume plots have aged to a lovely yellow patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original hands match the dial perfeclty, under U.V. light inspection the hands retain mostly original lume but do show subtle restoration to stabilize the lume. The white date wheel is orignal with open 6's and 9's.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.