Rolex Submariner Red 1680

[Moscatelli]

Hi All...I'm new to this forum so any input would be greatly appreciated. I have inherited a Red Sub 1680 from my Dad. He bought it brand new in Switzerland in 1970-ish. No box, no papers but it is all original and well worn, still keeping time. The bezel is completely faded (can't even see the numbers), and I'm wondering if it has more value as is, or should I change the bezel? Thanks in advance for any advice you may have.

[MorningTundra]

You can get a sense for asking prices by searching eBay and Chrono24.

Restore it if you plan to wear it. You’re unlikely to get your money back if you’re planning to resell it.


Sent from my cracked, broken hand wound phone. IG @morning_tundra

[Moscatelli]

Thanks. I've tried that but honestly the prices seem all over the place.

[MorningTundra]

Box and papers will add about $1000. The rest is down to condition and originality.

You should post pics to get a sense of what people think about condition...

And be careful about how you phrase your request for comment. Mods frown on soliciting offers outside the Sales section.


Sent from my cracked, broken hand wound phone. IG @morning_tundra

[Moscatelli]

Ok...I will post photos shortly. Thank you for your advice on how to properly phrase things - I am a complete newbie to this site and my intention is not to solicit offers, rather than to gain knowledge as to what I have.

[Moscatelli]

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I'm aware this photo isn't very clear, I will get another shortly.

[MorningTundra]

Wow, that bezel really IS faded. Some will love that, others won’t...

Try to get a clearer pic of the dial. People will be looking for any discoloration of the Black. And the state and color of the tritium hour markers. These are a big deal value wise.

Also condition of the bracelet and clasp. See if you can capture clasp markings to see if it’s a service replacement.

... if you didn’t already know, you have a very desirable and valuable watch. Don’t be in too much of a hurry to part with it.


Sent from my cracked, broken hand wound phone. IG @morning_tundra

[Moscatelli]

Ok, thanks again for all of this information - its good to know. I will try to get a clearer photo. And I am still not sure what I want to do, it's just that I have had the watch for a number of years now and I probably don't appreciate it as much as someone else would. I'm still deciding, but I thought I'd get informed before I make any rash decisions.

[btinl]

Whatever you do, make sure to keep that bezel insert. You can buy another mk3 insert to change the appearance some.

[omitohud]

Whatever u do, do not, I repeat do not send to Rolex service center. They will most likely require u to change many of the parts, which r more valuable than service parts. There are Many qualified independents, just search the older threads here for one.

If the insert is original n can be proven, it will be valuable regardless of color.


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[Styles Bitchley]

Love seeing such a well worn watch! Wonder what would cause such fading on the bezel. Looks like it was left out in the sun for a year or two.


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[Moscatelli]

I think it's so faded because my dad wore it every day for at least 40 years!

[1675-David]

it would be good to see some nice, well light, close-up images of the dial and case, the dial needs to be checked for chipping, blotchiness, reluming, bubbling etc, and the case for wear and polishing in order to get an impression of the watches overall condition, looks promising thought :-)

[Moscatelli]

Here are a few more photos...they're not great, I had my roommate take a few because I'm not at home at the moment.

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