In the late 1970s, a contestant on The Price is Right walked away with what looked like a simple door prize. Decades later, that very prize has resurfaced at Bob’s Watches — and it happens to be the Tiffany & Co. Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680. Known as one of the rarest vintage Rolex Submariners ever made, this piece combines Tiffany dual-signature branding, full provenance, and cultural significance.
The watch in question is a 1978 Rolex Submariner Ref. 1680, remembered as the first Submariner to include a date display. More importantly, this example stands out because of the Tiffany & Co. co-branding on the dial. Collectors value such dual-signed Rolexes for both rarity and cultural importance.
Why this Tiffany & Co. Submariner matters
- First Submariner model with a date window (Ref. 1680).
- Tiffany & Co. dual-signature, among the most desirable Rolex features.
- Provenance linked directly to a U.S. game show prize.
- Daily use by the original owner, adding authenticity to the story.
As Paul Altieri, CEO of Bob’s Watches, explained:
“It’s not just the rarity of the Tiffany dial, it’s the story. A game show prize became a cherished daily companion — and now, a world-class collector’s piece.”
Rolex collecting in numbers
Since 2010, Bob’s Watches has completed over 50,000 Rolex transactions. During the same period, Tiffany-signed Rolexes have increased in collector value by more than 35%. Furthermore, auction houses confirm record-breaking demand for dual-signed dials.
Q&A: Collectors want to know
Q: Why are Tiffany-signed Rolexes so valuable?
A: Dual-signed dials are rare because only a few retailers had this partnership. As a result, Tiffany-branded Rolexes enjoy even greater desirability.
Q: How can you authenticate a Tiffany Rolex?
A: Collectors should check correct serial ranges, dial printing consistency, and period-specific details. In addition, Bob’s Watches subjects each watch to strict authentication.
Q: What sets this Submariner apart from others?
A: Its unique story — a U.S. game show prize worn daily before entering the collector’s market. Consequently, it blends American pop culture with Rolex heritage.
Industry expertise and recognition
Bob’s Watches is widely known as the leading pre-owned Rolex marketplace in the United States. Through a transparent buy/sell model, rigorous authentication, and an educational approach, the company has built trust with new buyers and seasoned collectors alike.
Altieri added:
“We see ourselves as caretakers of history. Our responsibility is not only to authenticate and preserve but also to share the stories that make each Rolex unique.”
Suggested Reading:
If you’re interested in the history of Rolex co-branding, you can also explore the guide on Understanding Rolex Dial Variations.
For collectors focused on provenance, the article on How to Authenticate a Vintage Rolex provides a step-by-step approach.
And if you’re drawn to the cultural side, don’t miss the feature on Rolex Watches in American Pop Culture.
Introduction
This comprehensive Watch Buying Guide answers the most common questions about timepieces.
Whether you’re purchasing your first watch or adding to your collection, these expert insights help you make informed decisions.
From understanding movement types to choosing the right size for your wrist, you’ll find everything needed before making a purchase.
What Types of Watches Should You Consider? – Watch Buying Guide Insights
Understanding the five main categories helps narrow your options:
- Mechanical watches – Use springs and gears. No battery needed.
- Quartz watches – Battery-powered; most accurate.
- Automatic watches – Wind themselves from wrist movement.
- Digital watches – Display time numerically on a screen.
- Smartwatches – Connect to your phone and track fitness data.
Accuracy Expectations – Watch Buying Guide Tips
- Quartz watches – Lose about 15 seconds per month.
- Mechanical watches – Lose 20–40 seconds per day.
- Atomic watches – Lose 1 second every 100 million years.
- Your phone’s clock stays perfectly accurate.
Water Resistance Considerations
Water resistance ratings affect usage scenarios:
- 30m – Handles rain and handwashing
- 50m – Safe for swimming
- 100m – Suitable for snorkeling
- 200m+ – Scuba diving
Replace gaskets every 2–3 years to maintain resistance.
Maintenance Schedule – Watch Buying Guide Advice
- Quartz watches – Battery replacement every 1–3 years.
- Mechanical watches – Full service every 3–5 years.
- Service costs: $200–800 depending on the brand.
Watch for stopping, running fast/slow, or condensation under the crystal.
Pricing Strategy
- Budget watches – Plastic cases, basic movements
- Mid-range watches – Steel cases, reliable mechanisms
- Luxury watches – Precious metals, hand-finished details
Remember: craftsmanship, materials, and brand prestige drive prices.
Sizing Advice
- 6–7 inch wrists – 38–42mm
- 7–8 inch wrists – 40–44mm
- 8+ inch wrists – 42–46mm
Ensure lugs don’t overhang wrist edges.
Complications to Prioritize
- Date display – Useful daily
- GMT hand – Second time zone
- Chronograph – Stopwatch
- Moon phase – Decorative
- Annual calendar – Adjusts month lengths
More complications = more things that can break.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean with a soft cloth
- Avoid extreme temperatures & magnets
- Wind manual watches daily
- Use watch winders for automatics
- Don’t adjust date between 9 PM–3 AM
Investment Potential
- Most watches lose value after purchase
- Only select Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet models appreciate
- Vintage watches from 1960s–70s show strong growth
- Buy watches you enjoy wearing, not solely for investment
Essential Tools
- Spring bar tool
- Case back opener
- Soft polishing cloth
- Watch cushion
- Demagnetizer
Where to Purchase
- Online – Better selection, often cheaper
- Physical stores – Try before buying
- Authorized dealers – Full warranties
- Grey market – Discounts, limited warranty
- Forums/eBay – Vintage pieces, verify authenticity
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