Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner Date 40921216/AS05679

WHY WE LOVE IT

Submariner.

Sure.

Gold Submariner?

Absolutely.

The Rolex Submariner is without question the brand's most iconic model, and is a perennial favorite among collectors, enthusiasts, fashionistas, and yes - actual divers. And while you aren't likely to see a Submariner clad in a yellow gold case gracing the outside of a dry suit, it's hard to argue that these watches aren't every bit as awesome as their steel siblings - or perhaps even more so.

Casing a Submariner in 18K gold is almost a tacit acknowledgement that very few of Rolexes sporting models ever get used as originally intended - and that in its own right is a pleasing sentiment. It says that Rolex knows who they are, who their customers are, know they are above any possible reproach - and damn the torpedoes, we're making this beastie in solid gold!

This Reference 16808 could be considered a transitional model of sorts; featuring the desirable matte black Tritium 'nipple' dial of its predecessor (Ref. 1680/8), while also housing a hi-beat movement with quickset date function and sapphire crystal.

This particular piece dates to circa 1981 and features a strong holey lug Oyster case with a unidirectional rotating timing bezel, a signed Triplock crown, and a solid yellow gold Oyster bracelet with a signed fliplock clasp with a dive extension.

Excellent.

Many would consider this generation to be the ultimate blend of vintage looks and modern wearability, mirroring the transitional period of their steel siblings (Ref. 16800) before the beloved matte dials gave way to gloss and the "vintage" period thusly ended for Rolex.

This contradictory blend of technical design and functionality with a precious metal case is a polarizing one, and depending on how its worn (and indeed, by whom), can send very different signals - and we'll just leave it at that.

We, however, love it.

OVERALL CONDITION

The case is in excellent condition overall showing signs of light previous polishing and light signs of wear from gentle use with visible factory finishing. Matte black Tritium dial with applied 'nipple' indices is in excellent condition with evenly patinated indices and matching handset. Signed crown.