1680 Submariner or 16600 Sea Dweller

[jlc123]

So, I'm considering picking up one of these to add to my small collection. A little insight from the great members of TRF would be highly appreciated. Here's a little breakdown of my feelings toward each watch:

1680- This is an absolutely classic model with a stunning matte dial and maxi plots. However, it does come with a cyclops and would (in theory) be less durable than the more modern SD.

16600- I think we can all agree that this is a future classic model. The 16600 is one of the legendary Rolex tool watches of all time, has a great story behind it, and looks fantastic. While the SD is a slightly more capable diver than the 1680, its not quite as good looking.

Others- The 5513/5512 eliminates the problem of the cyclops but doesn't strike me in the way the 1680 does and is harder to find in the right condition. The 1665/16660 would be a perfect compromise but costs too much for me. The 114060 offers maxi plots and the modern quality and durability of the SD, but many details from the engraved rehaut to the super shiny bezel bother me.

Bottom Line- 1680 looks better and has more vintage charm, but the 16600 is the better overall package and will be a great piece to wear whenever. Right now I'm pretty torn, but I'd say I'm favoring the SD 55% to 45%

Side Note- I could potentially buy a 1680 and have the cyclops removed. Anyone able to recommend a good person for the job? Cost estimate?

I'm really looking forward to getting some input from you guys and finally some pics from the interweb. Thanks so much!

[Vishy26]

Just the color of the dial makes 1680 a clear winner here in my opinion. 16600 is more robust but if properly looked after, 1680 will outlive most of us in the forum.

[Tudor66]

I own both models, a redsub and a 16600.

The red is slightly thinner and classic looking; the Sea Dweller has all of the more modern attributes I admire in a Rolex diver. I've worn the sea dweller with a leather band for the best comfort...

I'm afraid your only option is to buy both models..

I hope this helps...

[jlc123]

Originally Posted by Tudor66

I own both models, a redsub and a 16600.

The red is slightly thinner and classic looking; the Sea Dweller has all of the more modern attributes I admire in a Rolex diver. I've worn the sea dweller with a leather band for the best comfort...

I'm afraid your only option is to buy both models..

I hope this helps...

I think both may be the way to go, would you recommend either one before the other?

[Alfredo.]

I´d go for the 1680! Honestly 200M water resistance is waaaaay more than enough for me. The looks of the 1680 are amazing! Perhaps a more tempting choice for me would be 1680 vs 116600....

[takumee]

Without doubt..

1680 anytime..

[Tudor66]

I would start with sea dweller, then the Red.

I did the opposite order...

Good luck

Al

[foodle]

1680 with a T19 crystal swapped in. Solves the cyclops problem.

[heatscore]

That SD pic you posted is great, though I would still go with the 1680.

Originally Posted by foodle

1680 with a T19 crystal swapped in. Solves the cyclops problem.

Thats an intriguing idea. Would an RSC actually do that, and let me keep the tophat?

[CWIN]

1680

[Nycturbovr6]

1680! I love mine

[DCheeta]

I love the 16600, but there's just something extra special about the 1680. The matte dial, maxi plots, silver date wheel, and the beautiful plexi crystal...so awesome.

[tecknik10]

I was in the same boat between a 1680 & red sub till I discovered the SD 16600 but went with the SD cause I don't like cyclops and the crystal over plastic. I believe the 16600 is a more durable watch and I wouldn't hesitate swimming or diving with the 16600 vs the 1680 or red sub I would be hesitant.

[colpol]

I've got both - I'll try to take some pictures later side by side

Since I got my 1680 back in May - the 1680's been the one I've been wearing the most

I wasn't sure if I'd be able to live with the cyclops - big difference between trying on & having it on a watch wearing for hours but got used to it fairly quickly.

5512 maybe the way to go if your not 100% - not as many & would have to hunt - but then 1/2 the funs in the finding the right watch

[T01]

1680

[HogwldFLTR]

For me it's all about function; I like to be able to read my watches in the dark so Tritium isn't the best alternative. Also having to have work done on the watch to get it to be what I wasn't isn't the best approach imho. Also damaging the crystal to make it a Frankenwatch doesn't help its value. Finally, an older watch is likely more prone to complication trying to keep it running than a newer model. So the final question in my opinion is what do you want the watch for. As a collector's watch the older one is better; as a work horse go for the newer watch. FWIW, I'm surprised you aren't considering the 14060(M) two liner.

[mike]

I moved this to the vintage section where the vintage guys are more apt to weigh in.

For me the 1680 represents the golden age of Rolex.

[jlc123]

Originally Posted by HogwldFLTR

For me it's all about function; I like to be able to read my watches in the dark so Tritium isn't the best alternative. Also having to have work done on the watch to get it to be what I wasn't isn't the best approach imho. Also damaging the crystal to make it a Frankenwatch doesn't help its value. Finally, an older watch is likely more prone to complication trying to keep it running than a newer model. So the final question in my opinion is what do you want the watch for. As a collector's watch the older one is better; as a work horse go for the newer watch. FWIW, I'm surprised you aren't considering the 14060(M) two liner.

14060M two liner is the only Sub I've ever owned, I found it a bit boring. Thanks for the suggestion though.

[Clay]

Two totally different watches in my opinion...Might I suggest a Gloss Dial 666…???

[Jason71]

Get the 1680 and have ABC Watchwerks put a custom domed crystal on it. Keep the top-hat crystal in a safe place just in case you decide to sell it and enjoy your new cyclops-less watch. Problem solved

[bluemartinifan]

For comparison purposes - they are totally different watches - the SD is a matte 666, the 1680 was traded to a friend and is a stunning example.

[Karbo]

4 digits rolex always before 5 digits

[CrownMe]

I would pick one of these. Had it over a year and I still can't stop staring at it.

[PoderEsBueno]

Good luck with the desicion

Here is a photo of mine

[Clay]

I say this…

[jlc123]

Originally Posted by Clay

I say this…

Is that a matte dial 666 with white gold surrounds? If so, how hard is it to find one of these?

[Clay]

Originally Posted by jlc123

Is that a matte dial 666 with white gold surrounds? If so, how hard is it to find one of these?

It is indeed…My "R" series 666...

666's in general seem to be getting harder to come by...

[jlc123]

Originally Posted by Clay

It is indeed…My "R" series 666...

666's in general seem to be getting harder to come by...

Very cool, I've never seen one like that before.

[Vincent65]

Originally Posted by Clay

666's in general seem to be getting harder to come by...

that's because you've got most of them…

[Clay]

Originally Posted by Vincent65

that's because you've got most of them…