1971 Rolex Red Submariner Date 1680 “Mark IV”

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With or without date? This is the question that vintage Rolex Submariner enthusiasts often ask one another. Rolex introduced the reference 1680 in 1967 – the first model in the collection to feature a date window topped with a Cyclops, the magnifying glass affixed to the plexiglas crystal. First produced with dials marked SUBMARINER in red, the “Great White” versions were then produced between 1977 and 1979.
Six dial variations existed for the reference 1680 with red SUBMARINER inscription. This is a "Mark IV / Mk 4", recognizable in particular by the shape of the open 6s, the red overprint on the initially white SUBMARINER line, and the depth inscription called "feet first" (for the first time on the reference 1680, Rolex first indicates 660 feet before the 200 meters equivalent, taking into account the growing importance of the American market at the turn of the 1970s).
The luminescent indexes (tritium base), like the hands, have developed a beautiful, uniform eggshell patina which greatly contributes to the "vintage" charm of this Red Sub'.
The stainless steel case is well preserved and topped with a plexiglass crystal. The unidirectional diving bezel insert is in excellent condition. The case back is engraved IV.70, for production during the 4th quarter of 1970 – perfectly matching the serial number.
The accompanying Rolex Oyster bracelet with folded links in steel, reference 9315 and 380 lugs is in excellent condition and appreciated by collectors. Its diving extension reads "PATETED", instead of PATENTED, a misprint again well-known and sought after by vintage Rolex enthusiasts!
A very nice example of a Red Submariner, fully serviced by a qualified watchmaker and working impeccably, perfect for everyday wear.

Condition

This Red Submariner Date reference 1680 is presented in very good overall condition.
The steel case retains beautiful proportions, the crown is defined, the fluting of the case back is clean, the interior clearly mentions the reference 1680. A nice plexiglass crystal adds to the charm of this 1970s Rolex. The reference and serial numbers between the lugs are perfectly legible.
The luminescent material (tritium base) of the dial with SUBMARINER inscription in red, called “Mark IV/Mark 4”, has developed an attractive and homogeneous eggshell patina, as have the hands.
The self-winding mechanical movement, Rolex caliber 1575, has been completely overhauled by an experienced watchmaker and operates to the strictest tolerances.
The Stainless steel Rolex Oyster with folded links, reference 9315, end links 380, buckle code 3/72 (manufactured during the 3rd quarter of 1972) is very well preserved and shows almost no stretch, the crown on the outside of the buckle is crisp, like the engravings on the blades.

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Specifications

General characteristics

Object ID : 1WQV
Brand: Rolex
Model: Submariner Date
Reference : 1680
Year: 1971
Gender: Men's watch / Unisex
Delivered with: Amplitude° Steel Warranty Card
Crystal type:
Plexiglass
Dial color:
Black
Dial markers: No numerals

Case

Case material: Stainless Steel
Case shape:
Round
Case back: Full, screw-down
Bezel material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions/Diameter: 40mm

Movement

Type: Automatic
Caliber: Rolex 1575
Frequency: 19,800 vph (2,75 Hz)
Functions: Date

Bracelet/Strap

Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster with folded links, reference 9315, end links 380, buckle code 3/72 (manufactured during the 3rd quarter of 1972)
Bracelet/Strap color: Stainless Steel
Bracelet/Strap material: Stainless Steel
Buckle/Clasp type: Fold clasp
Buckle/Clasp material: Stainless Steel
Lug width: 20 mm

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MODEL

The Rolex Submariner: The Legendary Professional Watch

The Rolex Submariner, whose debut dates back to 1953, is one of the most iconic and influential diving watches in the history of watchmaking. Originally designed for professional divers, it quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique combination of robustness, precision and timeless elegance. In continuous production for more than 70 years, numerous models with and without date display have succeeded one another, each more resistant, waterproof, precise and technical than the previous one.

The first Rolex Submariners, references 6204 and 6205, were manufactured from 1953 and presented for the first time at the Basel Watch Fair in 1954. Water resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), the Submariner was the first wristwatch capable of withstanding such pressures. This innovation was made possible by Rolex's patented Oyster case, which revolutionized the way waterproof watches were built. Its design was both functional and aesthetic, with a sleek black dial, luminescent Mercedes hands and a unidirectional rotating bezel for measuring dive times.

Over the decades, the Submariner has undergone several technical and stylistic evolutions. In 1959, reference 5512 introduced crown guards, while in 1962 reference 5513 offered a more accessible alternative, without chronometer certification. In 1967, the Submariner Date, reference 1680, added a date window magnified by a Cyclops loupe, thus increasing its functionality for everyday use.

In 1978, the reference 16800 incorporated a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for the first time on a Submariner, increased the depth rating to 300 meters, and housed an improved automatic movement, the caliber 3035. In 1989, the reference 16610 saw the appearance of the caliber 3135, renowned for its precision and durability.

Modern models, like the references 116610LN and 114060, introduced at the turn of the 2010s, feature scratch-resistant Cerachrom ceramic bezels, Chromalight indexes and hands, offering long-lasting blue luminescence for better readability in the dark, and Oyster bracelets with improved safety clasps. The latest versions of the Submariner continue to push the boundaries of diving watches. The reference 126610LN, launched in 2020, is equipped with caliber 3235, offering a power reserve of 70 hours and further improved precision.

Despite numerous technical and aesthetic developments, the Rolex Submariner has maintained, throughout its 70 years of production, its timeless aesthetic, with refined and legible dials, mainly black, luminescent indexes, a case in stainless steel, gold or two-tone, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and distinctive Mercedes hands.

The Rolex Submariner is an undisputed icon of watchmaking, combining technical performance and an instantly recognizable look. Since its beginnings in 1953, it has evolved to incorporate cutting-edge innovations while preserving the elements that have made it famous. A symbol of innovation, quality and style, whether you are a professional diver, a watch collector or simply a lover of beautiful objects, the Submariner remains an unrivaled choice for those seeking horological excellence.