29 Rolex Rare and Precious Submariner Automatic Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, Reference 16 808, Black Nipple Dial, Date, Bracelet, Tag and Papers

Estimate: € 25,000 –⁠ 50,000

Sold € 32,500

Model: Submariner
Material: Yellow Gold
Reference N°: 16808
Year: 1983
Case N°: 8083863
Caliber: 3035
Movement type: Automatic
Bracelet: Yellow Gold
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: papers and Rolex tag

The Submariner is among the most iconic – if not The most iconic – timepieces Rolex has ever produced and beyond any doubt one of Rolex’s most coveted models in the history of horology. During the years many references have been realized, starting from the 6204 in 1953, passing through the 6538 Big crown or Coroncione, the 5513 and the 1680, the first model with date indication. Firstly, produced in stainless steel only, with the changes of tastes were also offered models entirely made with other materials, such as yellow gold, going to subvert the starting idea of ​​a predominantly resistant watch, made of steel, with another one of elegance and versatility thanks to the use of gold. In 1979 a further change of pace, with the introduction of a new reference which added the novelty of the sapphire crystal instead of the classic plexiglass one. Was so born the 16 800 in stainless steel and the 16 808 in full 18k yellow gold, like the present lot. This reference (such as the 16 800) have the quick date change, which is carried out by unscrewing the crown and, after having extracted it to the first click, rotating it counter-clockwise. The reference 16 808 remained in production untill the 1987 and examples in nice conditions with full set such as the present one are very difficult to find. The case with crown guards to the Triplock winding crown and screw back is very nice and crisp and so is the Oyster yellow gold bracelet with original Rolex clasp. The unidirectional black bezel for checking decompression time spans still maintains the original color with no evident signs. The black glossy dial has the esteemed nipple configuration with applied dot indexes for hours/minutes and Mercedes hands. The caliber is the automatic 3035. Sold with original tags, calendar, warranty and yellow gold anchor, this lot is a finely interesting opportunity.