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Rolex Submariner 16808 Yellow Gold - 1983
Rolex Submariner 16808 Yellow Gold - 1983
Is this the coolest spec for a vintage Sub? We certainly think so! The 16808 was an evolution of the first gold Submariner, the 1680/8. Retaining the nipple dial in the earlier pieces such as this, it added a quickset date with its 3035 movement in addition to a sapphire crystal, giving it the perfect balance of vintage charm and modern practicalities.
This particular example comes from our personal collection, and dates to circa-1983. The 18k yellow gold case case is excellent. Lugs remain very thick and even, with clear numbers showing between them. Could use a slight refinish to get the beautiful Rolex brush lines and bevels showing sharply, but that's about it.
The dial is in absolutely fantastic condition, with no defects that we can see. Tritium is still present and full for the nipples, and they show tarnishing in line with its age. Hands are original and matching with only slight cracking for the tritium, with the same tarnishing.
Bezel is excellent with only minor signs of wear, though its movement is stiff and could do with a clean underneath. Pearl is tritium.
Original case back is stamped 16800.
Bracelet is a Rolex 92908 with a G serial which dates it to 1982. Has 11 links, so enough to fit roughly a 7.5in wrist. Please note that the springbars in the endlinks and clasp are steel. Extremely tight condition.
Service history is unknown. Currently running at around -9 secs per day at 292 degrees of amplitude. The crown doesn't have much thread on it. Screws down, but would likely be changed at service.
Comes as watch only.
If you’re looking for a vintage piece that you can actually wear without concern of damaging tritium, flaking hands or lack of water resistance then this is the perfect example. Vintage charm, with one of Rolex’s best ever steels ports pieces in our opinion, but looks as if it rolled out of the factory with all the benefits that brings. Perfect.
Brand: Rolex
Year: 1983
Model #: 16808
Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold
Case Details: 40mm
Strap/Bracelet: Rolex 92908 with 11 links
Movement: Rolex 3035 automatic
Dial: Black
Hands: Tritium
Paraphernalia: Watch Vault cleaning cloth and Watch Vault Travel Pod
Grading: Excellent vintage condition
Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see below for details.
Please note that payment for this piece is via bank transfer only, no PayPal or Credit Card. Please use the enquiry form below to contact us for purchase.
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Shipping is free within Australia, and all watches are sent fully insured and tracked.
Deliveries to Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney are usually within 48 hours.
WA, TAS and QLD - please allow up to a week transit time.
International postage is express and fully insured. Please note that all relevant import duties and taxes are payable by the purchaser.
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BONUS Watch Vault travel single watch pod with each watch purchased directly from our website.
Watch travel pod is shock and water resistant with a moulded foam interior to keep your watch protected.
Watch Vault Pty Ltd is an independent watch seller. We are not affiliated with any watch brands in any way. Our watches are sourced from various private sellers and dealers across the globe. All watches are guaranteed authentic and we will stand by their authenticity 100%.