Rolex Submariner

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SKU AS01896
SKU AS01896

Why We Love it

It’s an interesting juxtaposition when something that saw life as a tool becomes a luxury item.

That’s the story with Rolex. From the 1950s to 1970s the manufacture produced redoubtable tool watches meant to withstand enormous pressure, whether at altitude or in the deepest depths of the ocean, and rigorous use in some of the most punishing environments imaginable. They were meant to dive, and dive deep; to be worn, and worn hard; and for many they were a budget-conscious choice.

But in the 1980s the Crown underwent a subtle transformation from a producer of tool watches to those in the luxury realm.

It’s best in the Submariner that you can see that metamorphosis take place.

The Submariner has changed in many ways over the years. But those changes have been evolutionary, never revolutionary. It is small things like matte tritium dial 5513’s morphing into glossy dials with white gold markers. With all of these changes, Rolex shifts from being a manufacturer of pure tool watches to the crown jewel of luxury.

Released in 1979, the Rolex Submariner Reference 16800 was truly a refined version of the 1680, the first Submariner with a date function, and was a large step forward technologically for Rolex. The 16800 was the first time that Rolex used a sapphire crystal on a Submariner, as well as moving to the updated 3035 caliber with higher beats per hour, while also adding the quick-set date feature. It was the addition of these that really gave the date model of the submariner its everyday wearability.

Now, the Submariner could transition seamlessly from casual wear to the board room with only a change of clothes. These changes dressed up the Submariner and made wearing a Submariner with business attire more acceptable, giving the model a versatility that it had never before had. 

With its matte black dial is indicative of its early 1980s birth, and its ever so gently patinated hands and plots, the dial on this 16800 is hard to tear your eyes from once you put the watch on your the wrist. Not having to worry about scratching the crystal or winding a thousand times to change the date, the 16800 is the perfect marriage of vintage charm and modern tech. That marriage makes it the perfect watch to wear daily and be proud of when everyone else is wearing its modern brother.

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Rolex Submariner

Rolex Submariner

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Rolex Submariner

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