Rolex serial number question

[Black Snow]

I have an old submariner 1680/8 with serial number 506XXXX, no original papers.

Online lists put this in 1977. The previous owner thinks he remembers buying the watch in about 1973 but his memory is a bit hazy. So today I walked it into my local Rolex dealer and asked the certified guy to help settle the issue. He looked it up and told me the watch was made in 1969. I asked him to explain the discrepancy and he said simply that his list is superior, and that the public doesn't have access to it.

I'm not sure what the truth is. Has anyone else encountered this?

This is not my watch but it looks like this:

[Dan S]

Your 1977 estimate is solid IMO. I have encountered many original owners with hazy memories, so that part of the story doesn't surprise me. Similarly with lack of knowledge about vintage watches at Rolex ADs.

The only question is whether you are 100% sure about the serial. Pics would help.

[baumare]

Yes 77’ sounds about right for a 5.0 serial
Also I think that if the AD is correct the 1680/8 from 69’ should have a meter first dial,
Can you check that?

[Black Snow]

Thank you both for your replies.

In daylight tomorrow I'll double check the serial and take some photos to post here.

[dhknola]

Despite the particulars, what a watch!

[Mark020]

Originally Posted by dan s

your 1977 estimate is solid imo. I have encountered many original owners with hazy memories, so that part of the story doesn't surprise me. Similarly with lack of knowledge about vintage watches at rolex ads.

The only question is whether you are 100% sure about the serial. Pics would help.

+1

[carwashchris]

The AD is wrong ! You are right 1977 ish.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

[brandrea]

I’m not sure where your Rolex dealer is getting their list from, but a 5M serial is definitely not in the 60’s decade

[watch_this2]

+1