Jewellery, Objects of Vertu, Silver and Watches

Rolex. A stainless steel automatic wristwatch with date, Ref. 1680, No. 5151156, Submariner, circa 1977.
Movement: cal. 1570, automatic, 26 jewels.
Dial: black, triangular, baton and dot indexes, magnified date aperture, centre seconds.
Case: stainless steel Oyster, screw-down back and crown, calibrated bezel, no. 5151156, stainless steel Oyster bracelet.
Signed: case, dial, movement and bracelet.
Dimensions: diameter 39mm, bracelet circumference approximately
Accessories: punched guarantee and plastic wallet.
£6,000-£8,000

The legendary Rolex Submariner debuted in the early 1950s, designed specifically to endure the demanding conditions of scuba diving. Built for durability and reliability, these tool watches quickly gained favour among underwater explorers and military personnel. In 1966, the reference 1680 was introduced, marking a significant evolution as the first Submariner to include a date function.

This watch belonged to a distinguished businessman whose career carried him across the globe. Before entering the world of business, he served as an officer in the Royal Artillery and later achieved the rank of Captain in the Royal Marine Reserves. Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, he was a avid sailor, competing in several prestigious ocean races, including the renowned Newport Bermuda Race.