1974 Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680/8 – 18K Gold, Blue Nipple Dial, Box

This circa 1974 Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680/8 is a striking vintage example of Rolex’s iconic dive watch crafted entirely from 18k yellow gold. Introduced in 1969, the Ref. 1680/8 was the first solid-gold Submariner Date and helped transform the collection from a professional tool watch into a true luxury sports watch.

The 40 mm 18k yellow-gold Oyster case is paired with a blue Rolex service dial featuring raised gold “nipple” hour markers and a matching blue Rolex service bezel insert. A domed acrylic crystal with a Cyclops magnifier completes the unmistakable vintage profile.

Powering the watch is the Rolex Caliber 1575 automatic movement, featuring hours, minutes, sweep seconds, and a non-quickset date display. The model was originally rated for water resistance to 200 meters and uses a bidirectional rotating timing bezel.

This example is fitted with an 18k yellow-gold Rolex Oyster bracelet that has been professionally retightened. The crown emblem on the clasp shows some loss of definition from previous polishing. The watch is rated approximately 9/10 overall and includes a Rolex presentation box but no original papers.

For complete transparency, the blue nipple dial and blue bezel insert are genuine Rolex service-replacement components rather than the components originally fitted to the watch.

Key Features:

Model: Submariner Date
Reference: 1680/8
Approximate Year: Circa 1974
Case Size: Approximately 40 mm
Case Material: 18k yellow gold
Dial: Blue Rolex service nipple dial with raised gold hour markers
Bezel: Bidirectional 18k yellow-gold bezel with blue Rolex service insert
Movement: Rolex Caliber 1575 automatic
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours
Crystal: Domed acrylic with Cyclops date magnifier
Bracelet: 18k yellow-gold Rolex Oyster bracelet
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Original Water-Resistance Rating: 200 meters / 660 feet
Condition: Approximately 9/10; bracelet professionally retightened
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.