ROLEX 168000 SUBMARINER STEEL

Certainly the most obscure of all Submariner references, the 168000 was only manufactured for 9 months between 1987/88. A true transitional model, the 168000 upgraded the stainless steel alloy from grade 316 used in all previous Rolex steel watches, to grade 904. It is useful to note that Rolex is the only watch company to use 904 steel, which is superior to the surgical grade 316 steel that other manufacturers use. For me, this speaks volumes about Rolex’s commitment to product quality, that they use what is practically a proprietary grade of steel for their watch cases. The reference 168000 was replaced by the model 16610 and has a place in every Rolex watch collection.

Original R serial number steel case measures 40mm diameter by 12.7mm thick. Sapphire crystal. Uni-directional diver’s count-up timing bezel. Screw down Trip Lock crown operating as it should. Case is water resistant to 1000 feet = 300 meters. Case shows wear, but I believe it has never been polished.

Original dial is black with applied luminous hour markers and hands with date at 3 o’clock. The luminous on the hour markers and the bezel pearl are just starting to develop a patina which is uniform across all luminous elements and looks great. Dial and original hands are in perfect condition.

Movement is the automatic winding Rolex Caliber 3035 with 27 jewels and adjusted to 5 positions and temperature. Movement is immaculate and is running. This is a C.O.S.C. Certified Chronometer.

Rolex Oyster bracelet reference 93150 with non-flip lock clasp.

Watch is in overall mint condition and appears never to have been polished.