Few vintage Rolex sports watches possess the visual impact of this extraordinary 1976 yellow gold Submariner Date ref. 1680.

At first glance, the original nipple dial presents a rich and vibrant blue tone, yet with the slightest change in viewing angle it transforms into an exceptionally rare and captivating purple. This remarkable colour-shifting effect is seldom encountered and makes this one of the most visually striking vintage gold Submariners we have ever seen.

The correct serif-print dial with closed 6's is in outstanding original condition, complemented by its matching hands and beautifully preserved tritium lume plots. Equally impressive is the original MK3 ghost bezel insert, which still retains its luminous pearl at twelve, a highly desirable and increasingly uncommon feature on vintage examples.

The 40mm yellow gold Oyster case remains strong and honest, with thick, well-defined lugs and crisp model and serial number engravings between the lugs. Completing the watch is its correct 1976 18ct gold solid-link Oyster bracelet, fitted with the desirable "Pateted" diving extension.

According to Rolex production records, just 5,765 yellow gold Submariner Date examples were manufactured between 1969 and 1979, making these precious metal references significantly rarer than their stainless-steel counterparts. Combined with its exceptional colour-changing dial and impressive originality throughout, this example represents a truly outstanding opportunity for the discerning vintage Rolex collector.