The Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and watch enthusiasts. Its iconic design, robust build, and rich history have cemented its status as a grail watch for many. But within the already highly sought-after Ref. 1680 family lies a particularly exclusive and desirable variant: the COMEX Submariner. This article will explore the fascinating story behind the Rolex 1680 COMEX, delving into its history, distinguishing features, and the factors that contribute to its significant value. We'll also touch upon related topics such as the Rolex 1680 red review, Rolex red submariner 1680 price, Rolex 1680 red submariner years, Rolex 1680 dial variations, Rolex submariner 1680 price, Rolex 1680 bezel, vintage Rolex submariner 1680, and the Rolex single red submariner 1680.
The COMEX Connection: A Partnership Forged in the Depths
In 1978, the Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises (COMEX), a French underwater engineering and saturation diving company, received a batch of Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680 watches. This wasn't a simple commercial transaction; it represented a significant milestone in the history of both Rolex and professional diving. At the time, COMEX divers were primarily equipped with the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5514 (with its Helium Escape Valve, or HEV), a watch renowned for its robustness and reliability in extreme underwater environments. They were also beginning to receive the Sea-Dweller, another robust model designed for professional saturation diving.
The introduction of the Ref. 1680 into the COMEX arsenal is noteworthy because it marked a shift, showcasing Rolex's continued commitment to providing professional divers with reliable timekeeping instruments. The Ref. 1680, while not featuring the HEV, offered a different set of advantages – notably its date function, a highly practical feature for divers undertaking long, complex missions. The date function, while seemingly minor, proved invaluable for tracking mission parameters and decompression schedules.
Distinguishing Features of the Rolex 1680 COMEX
While not outwardly marked as "COMEX" on the dial or caseback like some later collaborations, the Rolex 1680 supplied to COMEX possesses several subtle yet significant characteristics that distinguish it from standard production models. These details, often discovered through meticulous research and examination, are key to authenticating a genuine COMEX example. These features include:
* Specific Serial Numbers: The watches supplied to COMEX fall within a specific serial number range, allowing for verification of authenticity. Researching these serial numbers is crucial for determining if a particular 1680 is a potential COMEX example.
* Dial Variations: While the majority of COMEX 1680s feature a matte black dial, subtle variations in lume plots, font styles, and the overall appearance of the dial can provide clues. Understanding the nuances of Rolex 1680 dial variations is essential for proper identification.
* Bezel Inserts: The bezel inserts on COMEX 1680s often exhibit specific characteristics in terms of color, material, and the way the numerals are printed. The careful examination of the bezel is a crucial part of the authentication process.
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