Rolex Submariner Ref. 16800 Service & Repair – Calibre 3035

December 31, 2020

Introduction & Brief History

The Rolex Submariner reference 16800 is a key transitional model in the Submariner lineage, produced from the late 1970s through the 1980s. It introduced several important updates, including the move to a sapphire crystal and the adoption of the Rolex Calibre 3035, a higher-beat automatic movement with a quick-set date. Early examples retained matte dials, while later versions featured glossy dials with white gold hour marker surrounds, making the 16800 a crossover reference that blends vintage character with modern functionality.

Service & Repair Procedure

This Rolex Submariner 16800 arrived in my shop extremely dirty and showing heavy signs of long-term wear. To restore proper function and reliability, the watch underwent a complete service and repair. The Calibre 3035 movement was fully disassembled, with all components ultrasonically cleaned and carefully inspected. Any worn or damaged parts were replaced as necessary.

The automatic winding system, date-change mechanism, and escapement were then reassembled and lubricated using high-grade modern synthetic oils. After regulation and timing adjustments, the thoroughly cleaned case was reassembled and the movement re-cased. Following service, the Submariner demonstrated smooth operation, strong amplitude, and accurate timekeeping, returning it to dependable everyday-wear condition.

Initiate the Service of your Vintage Rolex

If you have a Rolex Submariner, or other Rolex sports watch in need of professional service or repair, feel free to contact me to discuss your watch, or visit getting started. Each service is performed individually with a focus on mechanical integrity, originality, and long-term durability.

For additional information on watches we work on please visit these pages: Vintage Rolex repair— Vintage Breitling repair —Vintage Omega repair — Vintage Heuer repair —Bulova Repair, and Pocket Watch Repair. See my FAQ for additional information, and visit Watch Repair Case Studies.