The Rolex Submariner 1680. The very name conjures images of daring underwater exploits, sun-drenched beaches, and a legacy of unparalleled horological excellence. But for many collectors, the allure of the 1680 extends beyond its robust functionality and iconic design. It lies in the patina. That unique, often uneven, discoloration of the dial and hands, a testament to the watch's journey through time, is a source of both intense fascination and heated debate. Is it a blemish, a sign of neglect, or a beautiful patina, a mark of authenticity and a story etched in time? This exploration delves into the world of the Rolex Submariner 1680 and the captivating, and often controversial, subject of its patina.
Rolex Submariner Watches: A Legacy of Durability and Style
Before we dive into the specifics of patina, let's establish the context. The Rolex Submariner, first introduced in 1953, is a legend. Designed for professional divers, it quickly transcended its utilitarian origins to become a coveted status symbol and a timeless classic. The 1680, produced from 1966 to 1979, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. This generation of Submariners introduced several key features that distinguish it from its predecessors and successors. Key characteristics include:
* Steel Composition: The case is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, specifically 904L stainless steel in later production years, chosen for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability. This resilience is crucial for a watch designed to withstand the harsh conditions of underwater exploration. The specific composition contributes to the watch's longevity and its ability to age gracefully, even exhibiting the patina we're exploring.
* Black Bezel and Dial: The iconic black bezel, a crucial element for timing dives, and the matching black dial create a stark, highly legible design. The matte black finish of the dial provides a perfect canvas for the luminescent markers.
* Large Tritium Lume Plots: The 1680 is characterized by its large, generously applied tritium lume plots on the dial and hands. Tritium, a radioactive isotope, provided a self-powered luminescence, crucial for underwater readability. Over time, however, tritium decays, resulting in a characteristic color change, contributing significantly to the development of patina. This color change can vary from a creamy, yellowish hue to a deep, almost brown tone. This variation is a primary source of the debate surrounding patina—some find the aged glow beautiful, while others see it as damage.
* Cyclops Three O'Clock Date: The magnified date window, known as the Cyclops, located above the date at the three o'clock position, is another hallmark feature of the 1680. This practical addition enhances date readability, particularly underwater.
* Triple-Lock Crown with Guards: The triple-lock crown system, protected by crown guards, ensures water resistance up to a significant depth, a critical feature for a diver's watch. This robust crown mechanism is part of the overall design that contributes to the watch's legendary reliability.
These features, combined with the robust build and reliable movement, make the 1680 a highly sought-after collector's item. But it's the patina, the unique aging process of the dial and hands, that often dominates conversations amongst enthusiasts.
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