For sale is a rare 168000 Submariner „transitional“ with matted dial.

The official consensus is that Rolex produced this particuar Model for a limited time period of nine months. If you check the serial range in our archives you will see that the earliest known 168000 appeared around 9,3mio and the last models are in my book around R8. With a serial of R597 it is one of the last ones produced.

This model was used by Rolex to field-test the new steel alloy 904L which was widely introduced with all the „new“ references appearing during the very busy R serial range, 16570, 16710, the next submariner 16610, 16520, etc.

Case: previously polished during Rolex Service in 2006, all numbers and serial clearly readable with the naked eye. No major scratches, dings or other blemishes.

Bezel: original Rolex bezel with black original inlay. Inlay shows corrosion at the 40 marker. If you fancy one of my faded inlays in the ad below, pls let me know.

Dial: original glossy Submariner dial turned matte over time. Spotted surface turning brownish grey in direct sunlight.

Hands: later luminova Submariner hands, still glowing in the dark.

Movement: the watch was serviced by Rolex in 2006 and is running very strong, winds smoothly and is good for the next couple of years.

Watch is sold Head Only, no bracelet.

Images:

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsmasxfke7.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsqxebhkij.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsqosjv2b5.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsmfk6tkza.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsqkm37cgx.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps35ehbkva.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpslxbriizq.jpeg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c60/dubai2006/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsxhjxazsm.jpeg

This is a nice daily companion with its particular place in Rolex history. The so called „triple zero“ represents the stepping stone from the past to modern rolex sport watches and with its rugged dial easily distances itself from the ordinary common submariner.

Would it be a car, I would call it a Youngtimer. Since it is not yet real Vintage, I would call it a reliable tool watch with lots of character.

Due to the fact that the hands are later replacements and the missing bracelet I am asking 3800Euro, shipped internationally with insured courier service.

This is my best price. If you don’t like this price, feel free to make me an reasonable offer.

Return Policy: 3 days return if not original Rolex an das stated/shown above.

Plenty of references here onCT, VRM, r-l-x.de
Thanks to CT and OTD for t he space

Best Marc