Marking the beginning of a new era, Rolex introduced the ref. 1680 in 1966, the first Submariner reference to feature a Cyclopes date function. Initially launched in stainless steel, the early examples featured the desired red “Submariner” dial and it was not until a few years later that Rolex introduced its gold counterpart. Another milestone yet, the ref. 1680 in yellow gold was also Rolex’s first Submariner to be encased in gold to cater towards the demand for luxury followed with professional capabilities.

Adding a hint of flare and flamboyance to the famed professional diver’s wristwatch, gold examples were offered with two options, a matte black dial with a black bezel insert or a metallic blue dial with a blue bezel insert.

The present example is presented with a well-preserved matte black dial with a black bezel insert with signs of fade adding a tremendous vintage appeal. Presented in attractive overall condition the hallmarks stamped to the back of the lugs are crisp, intact and unrubbed.