The Restoration of a Rolex "Red" Submariner 1680 - Part II
By: John B. Holbrook, II
February 16, 2007
Copyright 2007

When we last left off, in Part I of my little restoration project, I had dropped off my 1680 to my local watch service shop for a polishing of the case and bracelet, replacement of the acrylic crystal, and a complete service on the movement. I had also ordered a new bezel insert to replace the badly faded original bezel insert which came with the 1680. So at this point, I have the watch back, the work is complete, and I have installed the new bezel insert.

For comparison sake, here is what the watch looked like before any work had been done to it:

Here is another photograph taken after I had cleaned the watch, and polished the existing crystal:

Now here is a photograph of how the watch looks with all of the restoration work complete:

All I can say is....Wow! The service center where I had the work done does work on HUNDREDS of Rolex watches every year. When I brought the watch in, their Operations Manager insisted on doing the work personally, since he "cut his teeth" on watches like this when he first got started in the business. Just look at how nice the lugs, case, and bracelet look now after this master craftsman did his job:

Not bad for a 36 year old watch, hunh? Since the bracelet cleaned up so nicely, I've opted not to replace it.

Now that the watch has a new (genuine Rolex of course) crystal, you have a really darn good view of the gorgeous dial, with the coveted red lettering. The hands are in remarkably good condition, as are the markers. I did not realize the dial actually looked this good, and was in this good of condition until the new crystal was put on the watch:

Some vintage collectors will not look kindly on the bezel and crystal replacement, which is why I've kept all the original parts. Personally, I think the watch looks much better this way.

For quite some time, I've wanted to do a restoration project on a vintage 1680 Submariner, and the process was extremely educational and quite satisfying. Perhaps one of the most important lessons I learned in the process was that I do not have a strong passion for vintage Rolex. Either you're a "vintage guy" (or gal) or you're not. As it turns out, I'm not. In as much as I have tremendous respect and admiration for the history and significance of this watch, as well as an appreciation for the rarity of the legendary "Red Submariner," I don't think I'll be keeping the watch. Now that it is restored, I'll seek a buyer who truly is passionate about vintage Rolex and particularly, the red 1680 Submariner.