Following the success of the reference 1680, the reference 16800 is noteworthy for being the first Submariner to be fitted with a sapphire crystal. Requiring a redesigned bezel, the enhancements significantly increased the Submariner’s water resistance, rising from a depth rating of 200 meters to 300. Considered a transitional model, the earlier versions of the 16800, like the present lot are fitted with matte dials with luminous markers, whereas later versions were fitted with glossy dials with luminous, white gold markers.

Reference 16800 is the last of matte dial for modern case with the combination of vintage features and modern wearability, it is known as the “Transitional Submariner”. Well-preserved with pleasing vintage appeal, the luminous plots on the dial have aged evenly into an attractive warm buttery hue and is accompanied with its original guarantee, hangtag and presentation box.