We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
The authenticity of the watch has been checked and certified by Sebastian, who is one of Sweden's leading watch experts.
Light trace of use
See more details
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
Verified authenticity by our experts
read more
Free shipping & duty to EU, UK & NO
14-day money-back guarantee
Read more about our authenticity process
Sell your vintage bags, watches, jewelry and accessories
Give your luxury vintage item a second life. Contribute to a more sustainable fashion world by selling your beloved product to us. It’s fast, secure, and available for sellers within the EU.
Product Description
An ideal companion for weekend escapes and smart city evenings, this vintage Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800 from 1984 adds understated sophistication to a tailored dinner or a relaxed seaside stroll. Its 40mm stainless steel case, black bezel and 'Pallettoni' dial on an Oyster bracelet bring classic style to business meetings and celebratory gatherings.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
Bags
Watches
Jewelry & Accessories
Sell your vintage bags, watches, jewelry and accessories
Give your luxury vintage item a second life. Contribute to a more sustainable fashion world by selling your beloved product to us. It’s fast, secure, and available for sellers within the EU. You receive your payment right after you accept our final quote.
/
• Stainless steel case, 40mm
• Black unidirectional rotating bezel
• Black 'Pallettoni' dial with a date display
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Vintage
Show more product information
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 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: 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.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Dimensions & Specifications
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
Delivery & Returns
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.
FAQ
Trustpilot
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
Show all images
11 583 €
START SELLING
Bags
Watches
Jewelry & Accessories
Home
Very Good Condition
An ideal companion for weekend escapes and smart city evenings, this vintage Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800 from 1984 adds understated sophistication to a tailored dinner or a relaxed seaside stroll. Its 40mm stainless steel case, black bezel and 'Pallettoni' dial on an Oyster bracelet bring classic style to business meetings and celebratory gatherings.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
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.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Style discovery
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
Bracelet perimeter
Case diameter
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
11 583 €
• Stainless steel case, 40mm
• Black unidirectional rotating bezel
• Black 'Pallettoni' dial with a date display
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
• Automatic movement
• Vintage
Condition
Dimensions
Product Information
PRODUCT FAQ
Delivery & Returns
Authentication
Contact an expert
Recently viewed
Fits a 20cm wrist or smaller
40
mm
Verified authenticity by our experts
read more
All watches comes with a 12-month mechanical guarantee
Fast delivery, fully insured and traced
Free shipping & duty to EU, UK & NO
Delivered with
no accessories
Made in
Switzerland
Serial number:
8298188 (1984)
Year of Manufacture:
1984
Reference Number:
16800
Product number:
WZ604245
The authenticity of the watch has been checked and certified by Sebastian, who is one of Sweden's leading watch experts.
