ROLEX 18k YG “Nipple Index” Blue Submariner Date 1984s

Introduced in 1967, the Ref.1680 marked the first time a date function appeared on the Submariner line.
While later generations would introduce two-tone variations, the earliest gold-reference descendant—the Ref.1680/8 introduced in 1969—existed exclusively as a full 18k gold model, emphasizing the growing presence of luxury within Rolex’s professional sports line.

In 1979, Rolex evolved the platform into the Ref.16800 series, powered by the new Cal.3035.
This movement introduced the quickset date function, allowing direct date adjustment through the crown rather than advancing the hands through repeated 24-hour rotations. At the same time, water resistance increased from 200 meters to 300 meters.

Alongside it came the full gold Ref.16808—
a watch that combined the physical weight, scale, and authority of Rolex’s sports models with the unmistakable presence of solid gold.

The example presented here is a rare early-production 1984 piece, still retaining much of the visual DNA of the earlier 1680 generation.

Its dial is the highly desirable early “nipple dial” configuration, distinguished by raised gold hour markers rather than the later flat white-surround indexes. The typography remains the early “1000ft” layout, while the “T” sits correctly between “SUPERLATIVE” and “CHRONOMETER,” confirming the dial’s originality.

Condition further elevates the watch.
The lugs retain strong, defined edges with virtually no visible thinning, while the caseback opening grooves remain sharp, showing only light signs of use.

Most striking, however, is the dial itself.

Rather than developing into the vivid purple tones often associated with tropical Blue Subs, this dial has aged into a deeper, muted blue with a subdued atmospheric warmth—creating a character entirely its own.

Combined with the early nipple markers, the result is not simply a vintage sports watch, but a piece that carries the full emotional weight of aging, material, and time.