When you think of spending a lifetime together, the term is usually ascribed to romantic or platonic love, not horological companionship. But this Submariner reference 1680 has been the companion of another since its production in the dying days of the 1970s. A mere 16 case numbers apart from its sister (the previous lot 24), it is more likely than not that both watches were sold to a South American Rolex dealer together, then to the same owner. Both watches are in almost the same physical condition and bear the same distinctive traits that set them apart from even the finest gold Submariners.

Most strikingly, the watches are fitted with 18K yellow gold Rolex President bracelets, manufactured in South America using Rolex patented designs. This is evidenced by the D’Agosto hallmark on each clasp, and also the distinctive texture and heft of the bracelets themselves. There are also matching “C” within a square punched to the underside of one lug, a common import mark for the South American market.

The condition on each is some of the crispest and most original we have seen. Sharply defined chamfers adorn crisply downturned lugs, each lug hole precisely drilled with no rubbing. The present lot has the caseback sticker almost entirely still present. A deep, rich pumpkin color has overtaken the original “bicchierini” luminous plots, and the bracelets have minimal stretch and sharp finishing.

Overall, the effect on the wrist individually, and side by side is beyond impressive. It’s rare to get the opportunity to buy one unpolished gold Submariner – it’s nearly impossible to be given the same opportunity twice.