Since its debut in 1953, the Rolex Submariner has, in many ways, come to define not only the dive watch category but the broader “sports” watch category as well. When people think of a wristwatch, there's a strong chance many imagine something akin to a Rolex Submariner, even if they can't pinpoint exactly why.

The Submariner has been worn by influential figures, Hollywood legends, sports icons, and countless other notable personalities. The very concept of a black-dialed stainless steel watch with a rotating timing bezel, luminous hands, and a comfortable bracelet was widely popularized by the Submariner!

When Rolex added the date feature, complete with the iconic magnifying Cyclops lens, the Submariner received an entirely new reference: the 1680. The earliest versions of the 1680 featured red "Submariner" text in the four-line signature at six o'clock, earning the watch its popular nickname: The Red Sub.

This particular piece is an early example, featuring the "200 m = 660ft" text, whereas later versions have the "660ft = 200 m" configuration. It is believed that Rolex made this change to better cater to the U.S. market, swapping the positions of meters and feet to appeal to American buyers. This is a so-called "Mk3" version, where the text has subtle differences compared to the "Mk1" and "Mk2" versions.

While the reference 1680 is not necessarily rare, the Meters-First Red Sub certainly is! It is believed that only about 7/8% percent of the 1680s feature the "Meters First" red writing dials. The 40 mm case is still in excellent condition , with a jet black bezel inlay , the luminous pearl is a later addition .

The dial is in excellent condition, with a beautiful warm yellow-toned patina on the hour markers and hands—creating a stunning contrast with the red line of text!

The Oyster bracelet, reference 93150, is also in great shape, featuring end links marked 580 and a clasp stamped VD. Included in the sale is a service invoice from a Rolex authorized dealer, where the glass was replaced. The original glass, though cracked, is also included in the sale. The watch has been fully cserviced by our watchmaker.

A line of red is always something "special" on a Rolex—whether it's the red depth text on a small or big crown Submariner , a Sea-Dweller, or a Daytona.

We know collectors who focus solely on finding that "extra line of red"! With this being the Meters-First version, it’s even more “extra,” making it truly stand out. No question that the Red Sub is still one of the most classic Submariners of all time !

Specifications:

Rolex Submariner Reference 1680
40mm steel case
Serial 229xxxx dating to 1972
Mk3 “meters first” Red Submariner dial
Warm yellow patina on hands and plots
Jet black bezel insert
Oyster bracelet 93150 with 580 enlinks
2008 Rolex AD service invoice
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Old glass ( defect ) included in sale
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Submariner Date 1680 “Red Sub” Mk3 Meters First Dial

Rolex Submariner Date 1680 “Red Sub” Mk3 Meters First Dial

Before/after