The Rolex Submariner reference 16800, and its close relative the 168000, represent a fascinating chapter in the brand's history. While widely known for their robust construction and legendary reliability, these models are particularly sought after by collectors for a specific detail: the matte dial. Unlike the glossy, almost luminous dials found on many Submariners, the matte dial versions offer a unique, understated aesthetic, adding a layer of mystique and desirability. This article delves deep into the world of the Rolex 16800/168000 matte dial, exploring the variations, serial number ranges, and the factors that contribute to their collectible status.
Rolex 16800/168000 (Dial Variation): A Spectrum of Subtleties
The primary difference between the 16800 and 168000 lies in the movement. The 16800 houses the Caliber 3035, a workhorse movement known for its reliability and precision. The 168000, on the other hand, utilizes the Caliber 3135, a later-generation movement with improved performance and features like a quickset date function. Both, however, share the characteristic that makes them so appealing to collectors: the option of a matte dial.
The term "matte" itself is a broad descriptor. While all matte dials share a lack of gloss and a more subdued appearance compared to their glossy counterparts, there's a remarkable degree of variation within this category. These variations are subtle but significant to discerning collectors, influencing the value and desirability of a particular watch. These variations can include:
* Shade of Matte: The exact shade of matte black can vary slightly from watch to watch. Some may appear slightly darker, others slightly lighter, and some even exhibit a hint of grey or green under certain lighting conditions. These subtle differences are often attributed to variations in the dial's paint application and aging process.
* Text and Printing: The font, style, and depth of the text (e.g., "SUBMARINER," "ROLEX," "OYSTER PERPETUAL," "SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED") can show minor inconsistencies. These variations are often linked to production batches and the evolution of printing techniques over the years. Slight variations in the lume plots (the luminous material applied to the hour markers and hands) are also noticeable.
* Dial Footings: The small, almost invisible feet that secure the dial to the watch movement can show differences in their construction and positioning. These are minute details, almost impossible to see without close inspection, but they are important to dedicated collectors.
* Tritium vs. Luminova: While the majority of matte dial 16800/168000 models utilize tritium lume, which has a characteristic creamy or yellowish hue as it ages, some later examples might feature Luminova, a modern, longer-lasting luminous material. Identifying the lume type is crucial for dating and assessing authenticity.
These subtle variations, in combination with the overall condition of the watch, contribute significantly to its value and desirability in the collector's market. A pristine example with a particularly desirable shade of matte black and consistent text printing will command a significantly higher price than a similar watch with a faded or slightly uneven dial.
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