Rolex Submariner Date 1680 MK1 1978

The Rolex Submariner 1680 made its debut in the late 1960s, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the Submariner family. It was the first version of this legendary diver’s watch to incorporate a date display, thereby introducing a new layer of everyday practicality to a timepiece originally built for professional diving. Production of this reference continued for just over a decade, wrapping up near the end of the 1970s. A 1978 example, like the one highlighted here, stands out as an important snapshot of how Rolex was fine-tuning its balance of functionality and refinement at that point in its history.

Over its production run, the 1680 experienced various adjustments—most famously the move from the earlier “red Submariner” designation on the dial to later versions that featured the model name in white. This specific piece from 1978 still showcases the iconic red lettering on its black dial, a detail highly coveted among vintage Rolex collectors. At the heart of the watch beats the self-winding Caliber 1575, renowned for both precision and robustness. Housed in a substantial 40mm stainless steel Oyster case and matched with Rolex’s solid Oyster bracelet, the 1680 offers both the hardy reliability expected of a professional diver’s instrument and the understated elegance that suits daily wear.

The advent of the date window on the Submariner was more than a simple stylistic choice; it signaled Rolex’s intention to cater to a broader audience. What had once been purely a diver’s companion evolved into a timepiece that could move effortlessly from underwater pursuits to office life. This shift mirrored Rolex’s overall approach: delivering exceptional water resistance and a unidirectional bezel for diving, while also incorporating a Cyclops date lens for enhanced readability. The result was a watch that maintained its place among dedicated dive gear yet appealed to an emerging set of collectors and professionals seeking reliable, multifunctional wristwear.

By the late 1970s, scuba technology had advanced considerably, spurring major innovations in dive watches. Rolex responded by blending the Submariner’s heritage of underwater capability with features that made it more versatile and attractive for everyday use. As part of this evolution, the 1680 bridged Rolex’s reputation for creating steadfast tool watches and its growing prestige in the luxury market, setting the stage for how the Submariner would continue to develop in the decades to follow.

Today, the 1680 is admired for perfectly marrying long-standing Submariner trademarks—like the rotating bezel, sturdy case design, and luminous markers—with the useful addition of a date complication. Enthusiasts prize the small yet telling variations that arose throughout its manufacturing years, from distinct dial markings to the nuances in case shape and crown guards. A 1978 reference model is especially intriguing: it captures the tail end of the red-letter era, before Rolex definitively switched to white text, preserving a detail that has become integral to vintage Submariner lore.

Well before the Submariner became an unmistakable symbol of status, it was engineered as a trusty companion for those working under demanding conditions. The 1978 Submariner 1680 exemplifies that ethos, showcasing timeless design choices—such as clear legibility, a unidirectional bezel, and a resilient case—that have stood the test of time. Its dual role as a dependable dive watch and a refined everyday option reflects Rolex’s knack for responding to changing tastes without compromising its professional roots.

For collectors and history buffs alike, this 1978 1680 represents a notable chapter in the Submariner’s ongoing story. It’s a vivid reminder of the model’s origins in serious diving utility, as well as Rolex’s talent for continuous innovation. That unique blend of proven durability and elevated style is precisely why the 1680 continues to captivate watch enthusiasts and remains an enduring icon among vintage Rolex aficionados.

• Case in immaculate condition, little to no signs of wear.
• Bracelet also in immaculate condition, no stretch and minimal signs of wear. 

• Dial & hands flawless