Rolex Reference 1680 Red Submariner Collector's Guide

About this manual

This document is a collector's experience and loose guide written by Mark Lerman regarding the Rolex Reference 1680, also known as the 'Red Sub' or 'Single Red'. It outlines the author's personal preferences and knowledge gathered from buying, selling, and collecting these vintage watches over many years. The text serves as a resource for identifying different versions of the watch rather than providing official operating instructions.

What's inside

• Collectors Experience
• Dial Varieties
• Case Numbers
• Mark I to Mark VIII
• Tropical Brown Dial
• Patina
• Dial Imperfections
• Hands
• Service Dial
• Buying Advice

Frequently asked questions

How many dial versions did the Red Submariner have?

The text states that the Red Submariner was produced with 7 different dial versions recognized by the collector community.

On which dial versions are Brown Dial Subs found?

Brown Dial Subs are only found in Meters First Mark II and Mark III dials.

What does the text say a good Red Sub dial will cost?

A dial in good condition will cost thousands of dollars.

What did the author observe about watches worn regularly?

Watches worn regularly did not turn yellow or develop a patina.