Rolex Submariner Date 16800 - Rare and Early ‘Pallettoni’ Black Matte Dial

Widely recognised as one of the most iconic dive watches ever created, the Rolex Submariner has stood as a benchmark in professional dive watchmaking since its debut in the early 1950s, conceived to meet the exacting demands of underwater exploration. Across the decades, the Submariner has evolved into one of Rolex's most esteemed collections, with its signature rotating bezel and robust Oyster case defining a timeless standard in sport watches. Reference 16800, introduced in the late 1970s, marks a significant evolution within the Submariner line. It was the first to incorporate a sapphire crystal and an enhanced 300-meter water resistance, blending the reliability of earlier models with important technical advancements. Its rare and early black matte dial with "pallettoni" maxi indexes and distinctive Mercedes hands reflects the enduring design language of the Submariner, while the unidirectional bezel offers precise timing for professional diving. Around 1985, a few years after this specific specimen was produced, Rolex introduced the new glossy black dial with white gold "bicchierini" hour markers, marking the transition toward a more modern aesthetic. The 40 mm stainless steel case houses the dependable in-house Caliber 3035, a COSC-certified automatic movement renowned for its precision and robustness, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Among the most significant technical updates introduced by the Caliber 3035 is the quickset date function, allowing the date to be adjusted independently without cycling the hands through a full 24-hour rotation. The design remains faithful to the classic Submariner aesthetic, emphasizing clarity, balance, and enduring style. The watch's clean lines and functional elegance exemplify the qualities that have made the Submariner an icon over decades. The present specimen, produced in 1982 and preserved in excellent condition, is offered as watch only, representing a rare opportunity to acquire a historically important transitional Submariner reference.