Debuting in 1953 and released to the public the following year, the Rolex Submariner has undoubtedly become one of the most iconic timepieces of all time, thanks to its legendary status as Rolex's flagship dive watch. Used extensively by the British Royal Navy and professional diving operations like COMEX, the Submariner set the bar for all dive watches to follow. Featuring a genuinely timeless design that has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history, the Rolex Submariner has become the archetypal sports watch. With very few large-scale aesthetic upgrades made to it over the years except for timely advancements like introducing a date function to the collection in the late '60s, and its modern cerachrom bezels, the Submariner is seen as the prototypical dive watch thanks to its consistency. As a result, the Submariner has earned its status as a legendary watch, with it still remaining as one of the most sought-after timepieces around.

Released in 1979, the Submariner ref. 16800 represented a major upgrade to the previous Submariner, the ref. 1680. Considered a transitional model between the first Submariner Date and its modern counterparts, the ref. 16800 featured the new cal. 3035 movement, which introduced a quick-set date function and thus made it much easier to cycle through the date.

The watch is in near-mint condition. The stainless steel case is very well defined, with light signs of wear. The case back features a personal engraving that corresponds to the name on the original purchase receipt (included). The dial and hands are near-mint, with the hour markers having developed a pleasing patina. The bracelet shows very light signs of use and has no play between the links. It has 12 links and fits an approximately 7½” wrist. The watch is accompanied by a complete collector’s set, including inner and outer boxes, guarantee papers, Submariner booklet, bezel booklet, anchor, numbered hangtag, COSC hangtag, and purchase receipt.