Watches worth watching Living with vintage watches
Rolex Red Submariner Ref.1680 ～ Mark I Tropical Dial ～
[Antique Watch Acquisition Leader’s Journal Vol.1]
By TAKAOKA · APRIL 09, 2020
Rolex Red Submariner 1680
Hello everyone, I’m Takaoka, in charging of antique purchasing at Jackroad.
In this article, I will introduce the world of antique watches to you from the view of a purchaser.
The Rolex Synonymous with Antiques : Rolex Red Submariner Ref.1680
First, let me introduce the iconic Red Submariner 1680.
Shortened as the “Red Sub”, as its name implies, this model is engraved with the words SUBMARINER in red.
I’m sure almost all watch-enthusiasts are familiar with this model as the most famous rare piece among the series of watches with calendars.
How Rare! The Antique Rolex Red Submariner Mark I Dial
Although the Rolex Red Submariner is usually rare in numbers, this one is a little different from the rest.
Have a look at this dial. It is slightly brown, right?
Within the less-than-10 short years of production, 6 different types of dials were made and within those six, we present to you the oldest one. The 1960-bornt “Mark 1” dial.
You can also confirm the initial lot from the serial number engraved on the case.
Generally speaking, it is not unusual for the Mark 1 dials to go through changes in color over the years. However, the browning process in this case is exceedingly rare.
As such, it led to it being called a “Tropical” dial.
Of course, this discoloration is not what the manufacturers intended to happen, The causes may is suspected to be the mixture of the materials used and the environment it was made in
In addition to its rarity, the unique look it gained as a result of its discoloration has further added to its attractiveness!
As Expected of an Antique, A Bezel like no Other
A distinguished bezel to match the unique faded dial. An important point that I would not like to miss out on.
Currently, the bezel of the Submariner is made of ceramic, so you can feel and see the traces of scratches and fading. Those are what, in a way, give antique watches their distinct traits.
However, if by chance, said parts are replaced with new ones during maintenance, it will destroy their unique traits and actually reduce the value.
Buyers are actually attracted to the unified vintage sense that original antiques give.
The definition of what classifies as an “antique watch” is ambiguous. You can see various expressions depending on different media however, in our shop, watches produced before 1990 will be treated as “antiques”.
Conclusion
So what did you think?
Henceforth, I want to share more about the charm points of antique watches with long histories with you. Please stick around until then!