The Rolex Submariner is an icon. Its name evokes images of daring underwater explorations, rugged durability, and timeless elegance. While the blue and black dials are arguably the most recognizable, a truly rare and highly sought-after variant exists: the Rolex Submariner with a purple tropical dial. This article delves into the allure of this specific model, focusing primarily on the Rolex Submariner ref. 1680/8, the first solid gold Submariner to boast this captivating color, and its place within the broader context of the Submariner lineage, touching upon more contemporary models like the 2022 Rolex Submariner Date "Bluesy" and others for comparison.
The ref. 1680/8, with its distinctive purple tropical dial, represents a fascinating intersection of horological history and serendipitous color change. Unlike the consistent hues found in modern Rolex watches, the purple in these dials is not a factory-applied color. Instead, it's the result of a process known as "tropicalization." Over time, the original dial color, often a darker shade of burgundy or even a deep reddish-brown, fades and changes due to exposure to sunlight and the elements. This sun-induced alteration creates a unique, often uneven, and highly desirable purple hue, making each example one-of-a-kind. The variability in the shade of purple, ranging from light lavender to deep plum, only adds to the collector's fascination.
The case itself, stamped "1680," is crucial to understanding the significance of the ref. 1680/8. While the reference number indicates its lineage to the broader 1680 family, the "/8" suffix designates it as the solid 18-karat gold variant. This marks a pivotal moment in Submariner history. Prior to the 1680/8, Submariners were primarily constructed from stainless steel, reflecting their utilitarian design intended for professional divers. The introduction of the solid gold version signaled a shift, appealing to a more discerning clientele who valued both the legendary performance of the Submariner and the luxurious appeal of gold.
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