Our remarks

Rolex Submariner Date - Reference 16800 - Stainless Steel - Bj 1985 - Excellent - Bucherer CPO 2022

The Rolex Submariner Date Reference 16800 from 1985 marks a significant transitional era in the evolution of the brand's quintessential diving watch, bridging vintage aesthetics with modern durability. Produced during the 1980s, this reference introduced key technical updates to the Submariner line while retaining the classic proportions and charm of its predecessors.

The 40mm Oyster case is crafted from robust stainless steel and features a scratch-resistant synthetic sapphire crystal, replacing the acrylic crystals used on earlier vintage references. This upgrade increased the watch's operational depth rating to 300 meters. A unidirectional rotatable black bezel with a graduated aluminum insert allows divers to safely track elapsed immersion time, supported by a triplock winding crown designed to ensure a waterproof seal.

The matte black dial of the 1985 model typically features tritium-filled hour markers that develop a distinctive creamy patina over time, set alongside classic Tritium Mercedes hands. A date aperture sits at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by the iconic Cyclops lens on the crystal. This specific era is particularly prized by collectors because it represents the meeting point between vintage matte dials and modern scratch-resistant sapphire technology.

Powering the reference 16800 is the automatic mechanical Calibre 3035 movement, which introduced a higher frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and a quickset date function, allowing the wearer to adjust the date independently of the hour hands. Fitted to a stainless steel Oyster bracelet, the watch balances tool-watch utility with historical significance, documenting Rolex's technical progression during the mid-1980s.

This watch is offered with:

- Official Bucherer CPO card 2022

- Original Bucherer Box