Rolex Submariner 40mm Pallettoni Dial Ref 16800 1984 Watch

Q: What is the Rolex Submariner 40mm Ref. 16800 “Pallettoni” (1984)?
A: It’s a transitional Submariner Date in stainless steel with a 40mm Oyster case, originally rated to 300 metres, featuring Rolex’s first sapphire crystal on the Submariner line and the automatic Calibre 3035 with quickset date. The “Pallettoni” dial refers to the early matte dial variant with oversized painted tritium hour plots (no white‑gold surrounds), prized for its vintage character and patina.

Q: What makes the “Pallettoni” dial different from later 16800 dials?
A: “Pallettoni” indicates a matte dial with large, painted tritium lume plots. Later 16800s transitioned to glossy dials with white‑gold surrounds around the hour markers. The matte Pallettoni look is more overtly vintage, often showing warm patina and a softer, tool‑watch aesthetic.

Q: Which movement does it use and what is the power reserve?
A: The Submariner Date 16800 typically houses the COSC‑certified automatic Rolex Calibre 3035 (28,800 vph) with quickset date. Power reserve is around 42–48 hours depending on condition and service history. We can confirm the movement in this specific watch on request.

Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and Cyclops magnifier?
A: Yes. The 16800 introduced a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal to the Submariner, and it features Rolex’s Cyclops lens over the date for improved legibility.

Q: Is it water‑resistant and suitable for diving?
A: When new, the 16800 was rated to 300 metres with a unidirectional timing bezel. However, water resistance on vintage watches cannot be guaranteed without recent gasket replacement and professional pressure testing. If you intend to swim or dive, have it serviced and tested first, and always ensure the crown is fully screwed down.

Q: How do I set the time and quickset date safely?
A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: wind (20–30 turns if stopped). Position 2: quickset the date. Position 3: set the time. Avoid changing the date between roughly 8pm and 2am to protect the mechanism. When finished, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to help maintain water resistance.

Q: What bezel and lug width does the 16800 use?
A: It uses an aluminium bezel insert with a luminous “pearl” at 12 o’clock and a unidirectional rotation. The lug width is 20mm, so straps and bracelets should match 20mm for correct fit.

Q: Will the tritium lume still glow on a 1984 dial?
A: Tritium ages and typically no longer self‑illuminates strongly after decades; many vintage Pallettoni dials show little to no glow. Its value is primarily aesthetic—the creamy patina and period‑correct originality—rather than night‑time brightness.

Q: What bracelet fits, and can it be resized?
A: The 16800 commonly pairs with the Oyster bracelet (e.g., 93150 with diver’s extension). We can size the bracelet before dispatch, and additional links may be sourced subject to availability. Share your wrist measurement and we’ll advise options. Strap changes should respect the 20mm lug width and correct end‑link fit.

Q: How does the 16800 compare to the 1680 and 16610?
A: Versus the 1680, the 16800 adds sapphire crystal, a 300‑metre rating and the quickset Calibre 3035. Versus the later 16610 (Calibre 3135), the 16800—especially Pallettoni—retains the vintage matte dial aesthetic while offering many modernised features, making it a sought‑after transitional reference.

Q: How can I verify the reference and production year?
A: The reference is stamped between the lugs at 12 o’clock and the serial at 6 o’clock (the bracelet must be removed). A Retro Tale can help verify these details for this watch and provide close‑up photos upon request.

Q: Is it authentic, and what warranty/shipping do you offer?
A: A Retro Tale rigorously authenticates every item and guarantees 100% originality. All watches include a 12‑month movement guarantee. We offer free, fully insured DHL shipping, a 14‑day return policy, and 0% customs fees for EU buyers. Accessories included are as stated in the listing—contact us for any specific delivery or documentation questions.