VERSUS: Submariner 1680 v. 16610

[dbhak22]

Had a random thought today to periodically start posting a "VERSUS" picture to compare two watches (and only those two watches) and discuss pros/cons by outlining the differences and getting folks' ideas/thoughts/opinions here. We got folks here who are experts that have been collecting and studying these things for decades to those who are just starting to venture into the crazy world of Rolex (and everyone in between). So I think it would be fun and educational!

So to kick it off, I have for everyone today the iconic Submariner in the 'with date' variety. Reference 16610 v. 1680.

Some obvious things:

Glossy dial v. matte
Luminova v. tritium
Non-maxi markers v. maxi

Which do you prefer and why?

[FTX I]

The 1680 has more charm. On the other hand I love the glossy dial on the 5 digit and for a daily use I'd choose this one. But the answer is both of course.

[dbhak22]

Originally Posted by FTX I

The 1680 has more charm. On the other hand I love the glossy dial on the 5 digit and for a daily use I'd choose this one. But the answer is both of course.

HAHA. Both is not an option! :)

[WilliamN]

I'll take a matte dial any day.

[BristolCavendish]

Being 16610 owner I am probably prejudiced but in this particular comparison I find the 5-digit Submariner more attractive than its older brethren. While many may extoll the aesthetic virtues of tritium patina, if it doesn't glow in the dark anymore what you've essentially got is a 'daytime' usage vintage-era watch. The trim/borders around the markers on the 16610 give the dial a much 'cleaner' and modern appearance and the gloss black dial adds contrast + you have Luminova to get you through the night.

On the other hand, I would opt for the 1680 over the current 6-digit models as it has the traditional Submariner lines and the lugs are more contoured + you have holes for easy access to the watch pins.

[j0oftheworld]

4dig

[sensui]

1680....not close....the matte dial and patina tritium to me embodies the definition of Rolex diver.

Now 16800....that'd make me think.

[keschete]

For collecting the 1680 hands down, but for wearing daily the 16610 is my everyday piece.

[mattedialdoc]

1680 all day long. A serviced vintage with a new acrylic crystal is every bit as bombproof a daily wear as a sapphire, and I'd argue more so. Scratches are easily buffed out, and the acrylic is actually a much more durable material. No chipping, shatter resistant, none of those greasy fingerprints.


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[S.C]

16610 for me. The white gold surrounds make the dial much more pleasurable for the eye to look at.

[stevedssd]

Great thread......... another big plus for the 1680 is the Top Hat plexi and a minus is no quickset so setting the date takes a loooong time!

Overall the matte maxi dial wins it for the 1680 for me

[16610v]

I had a 16610 before and turn out sold it and bought a 5513 as not so easy see someone wearing the same watch.

If I were you, I would absolutely go for the 1680, the patina lum are just perfect.

Here are my current 5513 and sold 16610:

[IMG]5513 vs 16610 rolex submariner by litwing23, Flickr[/IMG]

[yannis]

1680 without a doubt if i had to choose.

[mailman]

1680 for me. I love the matte finish maxi dial

[Dustytrail]

Acrylic crystal with a matte black dial is a win-win in my book, so I would definitely choose a 1680 over a 16610.

In the case of Rolex, I love their acrylic crystal over their sapphire crystal because of the acrylic crystal's clarity with less glare. Looking down on an acrylic crystal is like looking down on a swimming pool - the clarity and view is mesmerizing once you see the matte dial's indices and typography.

[zugustiano]

Originally Posted by Dustytrail

Acrylic crystal with a matte black dial is a win-win in my book, so I would definitely choose a 1680 over a 16610.

In the case of Rolex, I love their acrylic crystal over their sapphire crystal because of the acrylic crystal's clarity with less glare. Looking down on an acrylic crystal is like looking down on a swimming pool - the clarity and view is mesmerizing once you see the matte dial's indices and typography.

Hello!!! I also love the thick acrylic crystal hands down and wanted to see if this can be added to a 16610?
Thanks.

[Kostas]

both

[Loevhagen]

The 1680 wins this one :)

[rhairman]

IMO, the 1680 looks rugged and true tool watch. Whereas 16610 has the combination look of tool and elegance.

I pick 16610

[dr35mm]

If part of a collection: 1680
If one and only: 16610




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[Bladeshot]

Originally Posted by dr35mm

If part of a collection: 1680
If one and only: 16610




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This!


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[colpol]

Great topic to discuss ;.)

I've a 1680 & far better looking than the modern sub - imho.

I will say the lack of a quick set date though is a major disadvantage & pain in the ar$e especially if it's not your daily wearer

[Alexwwjd]

1680 is so sexy! This would be my choice.

Back in 2004 I wanted to get my first Rolex, didn't have enough money but it was a Sub (16610) what got me into this hobby.

I didn't get a Rolex then but 5 years later.


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[douglasf13]

On looks and vibe alone, I'd choose the 1680, but if I wanted something that could still be had like-new with working lume and at a more "beat around" price, I'd go 16610.

[AK797]

4 digits are kinda sexy and sizzlingly sexy with an early Mark splash of red. I'd rather have a 6 digit than 5 for devil may care wear.

[T.Rex]

Both are super nice but the 16610 face looks a lot sharper.

[colpol]

Know I posted earlier but found this pic in my Photobucket account - thought I'd add for another shout out for vintage ;.)

[ras47]

I’m not a fan of patina. I like new looking watches with strong lume. For me, 5 digit > 4 digit.

[miasub]

I've been in love with 1680 for years...the crazy top hat crystal, tritium lume patina, and OF course I LOVE lug holes.

I will say though that an early 16610 would have tritium patina as well as lug holes so that could be a happy medium. My T series 16613 has lug holes and amazing creamy tritium patina so it will do ;)

[watchaser]

Man, that’s a great example of a 1680.