Click on selected photo to zoom in
Image Gallery
Rolex
Read Brand Profile →Submariner Date
168000
Condition
Very Good
Year
1988
Box
Yes
Papers
Yes
Case Size
40mm
Dial Color
Black
Material
Steel
Movement
Automatic
Complications
Date
$18,999
+ $100 insured shipping within: United States of America
Buyer Protection
Your payment is held securely until you receive and inspect the watch. Full refund if the item is not as described. Learn more →
Reference image — actual watch may vary
Coral Gables, FL
From the Library
Description
The Rolex Submariner Reference 168000 “Triple Zero” is one of the rarest transitional Submariner references ever produced. At first glance, it appears nearly identical to the late 16800, but the 168000 was a short-run model produced for only about nine months around 1987–1988. Its significance lies in Rolex’s transition from 316L steel to more corrosion-resistant 904L steel, making the 168000 the first Submariner to feature the material Rolex would later market as “Oystersteel” across its lineup. This example features an R serial number dating production to 1987 and is fitted with an Oyster bracelet stamped M4, dating it to April 1988. Surrounded by the 40mm case is a black tritium dial which exhibits subtle spidering consistent with age, and as is expected for 168000s. The indices on the dial have also started to transform to a very light shade of cream. As is also common amongst 168000s the handset and lume pip have patinated slightly lighter than the dial lume. The dial, bezel pip and handset are all nonreactive to UV, as is correct. This unpolished watch remains in very nice overall condition, showing light superficial scratching throughout the case and bracelet, along with minor dings to the bezel and case sides. The bezel insert is in very nice condition with light surface scratches, most notably near the “40” marker. The bracelet remains tight and well preserved. This timepiece is accompanied by its Rolex outer box, display box, document wallet, translation booklet, calendar card, Rolex Submariner manual, and warranty papers dated September 1988. As is correct for the reference, the case between the lugs is stamped 168000, while the accompanying paperwork references 16800—a well-known and accepted transitional detail among collectors.
