The Rolex Submariner 16808 occupies a fascinating niche in the history of this iconic dive watch. Produced during a period of transition for the Submariner line, the 16808 represents a bridge between the classic designs of the past and the modern aesthetics that would define subsequent generations. Understanding its place within the broader Submariner lineage – alongside models like the 5513, 16610, and the more recent 126610LN – requires a closer examination of its unique features, its production history, and its current standing in the collector's market.
The Rolex Submariner Date 16808, to give it its full title, is immediately recognizable as a Submariner, yet subtly different. Unlike its predecessors, the 16808 boasts a larger 40mm case, a significant jump from the 39mm case of its immediate ancestors. This subtle increase in size reflects a trend towards larger watches that began to gain popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This shift in dimensions, while seemingly minor, contributes significantly to the watch's overall presence on the wrist.
The dial of the 16808 is another key area of interest. Often featuring a matte black finish, the dial design is characterized by its clean, uncluttered appearance. The luminous markers and hands, typically utilizing tritium lume (later replaced by Luminova in some later production runs), ensure excellent legibility in low-light conditions – a crucial feature for a dive watch. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is a hallmark of the "Date" Submariner models, distinguishing them from the simpler, no-date Submariners like the iconic 5513. The font style and the overall layout of the dial elements contribute to the classic Submariner aesthetic, yet subtle variations in the font and the style of the markers can help date specific production years.
The bezel, often referred to as the "ghost bezel" in certain circles, is a defining characteristic of the 16808. This nomenclature stems from the fact that the markings on the bezel insert, typically in a faded or worn appearance, often appear "ghostly" due to age and use. This unique characteristic adds to the watch's overall charm and contributes to its desirability among collectors. The bidirectional rotating bezel is a key functional element of the Submariner, allowing divers to accurately track elapsed dive time. The slightly faded or worn appearance of the bezel insert on many examples of the 16808 is not a defect but rather a testament to the watch's age and use, adding to its patina and character.
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