Rolex 16803 Review: The First Two-Tone Submariner Watch | Bob's Watches

Today, we’re discussing the very first two-tone Submariner: Ref. 16803. Shop this intriguing Rolex here: https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex/submariner-16803 Are you interested in learning more about the Submariner 16803? Including its history, pricing, and feature set? Check out our comprehensive 16803 Rolex review here: https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/watch-review/rolex-submariner-date-reference-16803.html When Rolex released the Submariner in 1953, it was only offered in stainless steel and with a black dial and bezel. Early references also featured lower water resistance than we’re accustomed to today, a bi-directional 60-minute bezel (compared to the safer uni-directional bezel mounting on modern references), and a time-only dial. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Rolex recognized the desire among collectors for a Sub in a metal finish other than steel, and an all-gold option was added to the lineup. With the gold Rolex Submariner also came the option for a blue dial or bezel option. The Submariner was no longer solely a professional diver’s tool watch. It was also quite the statement piece that many luxury watch enthusiasts strived to own. It was also during this time that Rolex finally added a date mechanism to the dial. Further sealing the Submariner’s fate as more than just a dive watch, it was also suited for daily wear. Although gold was now an option within the series, it still wasn’t available in two-tone, and the blue dial and bezel options were not a