We are delighted to offer the first matte dial 16800 we have owned in several years. A truly great looking early example transitional 16800 Submariner with first generation matte dial. Featuring a previously polished, but very beefy lug 40mm diameter case with sapphire crystal, quickset date caliber 3035 movement and with stunning matte black dial with ivory color tritium lume indexes and hands, and with evenly aged now matte finish unidirectional elapsed time bezel with aged pearl.

If you are a follower of our site, you are familiar with our fondness for early and distressed dial sport model Rolexes. You may recall our recent immensely popular chocolate color “Alton Brown” 16800 model, and previously our so called “Middle Earth” distressed Submariner back in April, and our chocolate and bumpy surface dial 16800 “Mr. Goodbar” in June.

In our opinion, the matte dial 16800 is the best combination of a vintage and modern submariner. The matte black 16800 dial is the same as found in the vintage plastic crystal 1680 models. However the 16800 matte dial is marked for 1000 foot depth rating made possible by the use of the sapphire crystal, versus the 660 foot depth rating of the 1680. Like the 1680 dial, the matte 16800 dial lacks the white gold luminous index surrounds of the next generation dial.

The watch has been fully serviced and pressure tested, and left unpolished as found, and is complete with its original excellent condition 93150 ref heavy Oyster flip lock clasp bracelet with 593 end pieces and with corresponding H clasp date code.

If you’re looking for a distinctive vintage sub, and after all, who isn’t, this is one you must see in person to fully appreciate. Currently available in our shop. Schedule a Saturday appointment now, as we don’t expect this to stick around long!