1972 Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680 “Red Sub” – Box, No Papers

The Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680 “Red Sub” is one of the most recognizable and collectible vintage Rolex sports watches. Introduced in the late 1960s, the Ref. 1680 was the first Submariner equipped with a date display and Cyclops magnifier. Early examples featured the model name “Submariner” printed in red, creating the celebrated “Red Sub” nickname.

Dating to approximately 1972, this example features a matte black “feet first” dial with red Submariner text, tritium hour markers, and matching tritium hands. The dial and hands are stated to be original and display attractive age-related patina.

Its 40 mm stainless steel Oyster case is fitted with a black aluminum bezel insert, bidirectional rotating bezel, and domed acrylic crystal. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 1575 automatic movement, featuring a date display and approximately 48 hours of power reserve.

This example is fitted with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet and is in approximately 8/10 vintage condition. It includes a Rolex presentation box but does not include its original papers.

Key Features:

Model: Submariner Date “Red Sub”
Reference: 1680
Approximate Year: Circa 1972
Case Size: Approximately 40 mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial: Matte black “feet first” dial with red Submariner text
Lume: Tritium with age-related patina
Bezel: Bidirectional rotating bezel with black aluminum insert
Movement: Rolex Caliber 1575 automatic
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
Crystal: Domed acrylic with Cyclops date magnifier
Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Original Water-Resistance Rating: 200 meters / 660 feet
Condition: Approximately 8/10 vintage condition
Box: Yes
Papers: No

The stated water-resistance rating reflects the model’s original factory specification and is not guaranteed for a vintage watch unless it has recently passed a pressure test.