The Rolex Submariner 16800 holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. This transitional model, bridging the gap between the earlier Submariners and the later, more modern iterations, boasts a unique blend of vintage charm and robust functionality. While often confused with its successor, the 168000, understanding its nuances and identifying genuine examples requires careful attention to detail. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to the Rolex Submariner 16800, delving into its specifications, history, value, and comparisons with other models.
The Curious Case of the 16800 and 168000: A Tale of Two Numbers
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Rolex Submariner 16800 is the persistent presence of the "16800" reference number even on watches officially designated as 168000. This seemingly contradictory detail has fueled much discussion among collectors. The reality is that Rolex's transition between reference numbers wasn't always clean-cut. Many 168000 watches were produced with paperwork and even caseback engravings bearing the older 16800 reference. This doesn't necessarily indicate a counterfeit; instead, it highlights a period of overlap during Rolex's manufacturing process. To definitively determine whether a watch is a true 16800 or a 168000, several factors must be considered, as outlined below.
How to Distinguish a 16800 from a 168000:
The key difference lies in the movement. The 16800 uses the Caliber 3035 movement, while the 168000 utilizes the updated Caliber 3135. While visual inspection can offer clues, a qualified watchmaker's assessment is crucial for accurate identification. Other factors to examine include:
* Caseback Engraving: Although some 168000 watches display the 16800 engraving, this is not a reliable sole indicator. Genuine 16800s will consistently have the correct engraving.
* Serial Numbers: The serial number range can provide a clue, but this requires consulting Rolex production year data (discussed later).
* Dial and Hands: Slight variations in dial markings, lume plots, and hand styles can differentiate the two, but these subtle differences require expertise to discern.
* Bracelet: While both models could use similar bracelets, subtle changes in end-link design or clasp markings might offer clues.
* Guarantee Papers: As mentioned, the guarantee papers frequently list the 16800 reference even for 168000 watches, making this a less reliable identifier.
Rolex Submariner 16800 Review:
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