1969 Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 'Red' MK1 Meters First dial

The Rolex ‘Red’ Submariner was produced from roughly 1969 to 1974. Aside from the red font that drives collectors batty, it's truly notable for one thing: it's the first Submariner with a date.

 

The very first batches are called ‘Meters First’ because the 200m reading on the depth rate of the dial below SUBMARINER is before the 660ft one. Within these first batches we distinguish the MK 1, MK 2 and MK 3. The MK 1 represent only 1.6% of all the 1680 reference. It is incredibly rare and, hence, very sought-after.

Offered for sale is an extremely beautiful example of one of the very first batches of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 ‘Red Letter’ MK 1 dial which dates to 1969.

 

The uber rare MK 1 dial is preserved in perfect condition with no scratches, stains, missing printings or spotting. It features a lovely, texturized surface with creamy patina lume plots that match perfectly with the hands.

 

The case remains unpolished with thick lugs and sharp bevels. The case back remains in the same condition too. The bezel also remains unpolished. It is on its original ‘Long 5’ insert which remains in outstanding condition, having slightly faded to a beautiful gray-ish hue, still preserving the original matching tritium pip.

 

The acrylic crystal is clean.

 

It comes suited on its original Rolex Riveted 7206 stainless steel bracelet with 80 end links and clasp date 3/69 that remains in fabulous condition with very little stretch for its age.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

This is indeed a great opportunity to catch an extremely wanted ‘Red’ Sub that rarely surfaces the market in this condition.

 

Macros of dial and case, as well as movement and inner case back pictures are available under request.