Iconic Status Conferred on Robert Redford's Unique Rolex
In the late 1960s, a legendary watch was born—the Ref. 1680 Red Submariner. This iconic timepiece, with its distinctive red dial, has been a staple in the 70-year history of Rolex's Submariner line.
The Ref. 1680 Red Submariner was not just any ordinary watch. It was the first Submariner to feature a date window, marking a significant shift for Rolex from a maker of robust tool watches to a true luxury brand.
During this time, the Ref. 1680 Red Submariner was a respected functional watch, worn by many, including one of the last icons of the 1960s and 1970s—Robert Redford.
Redford, known for his ability to bring a piece of his own personality to every role he played, wore the Ref. 1680 Red Submariner in some of his most memorable films, such as "The Candidate" and "All the President's Men." It was Redford who made this Rolex Submariner legendary and highly sought-after.
The Ref. 1680 Red Submariner worn by Redford in these films is now considered an extremely desirable classic. A well-preserved example can cost over 30,000 euros, making it one of the most sought-after Submariners in the model's history.
Robert Redford's career spanned from 1969 to 2018, during which he starred in some of the most iconic films of the era, such as "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" alongside Paul Newman in 1969.
Despite retiring from acting in 2018, Redford's influence continues to be felt, particularly through the iconic watches he wore. The Ref. 1680 Red Submariner, worn by Redford, is considered to embody the legacy of this actor.
Unlike his colleague Dustin Hoffman, Redford did not feel the need to completely shed his own personality to embody a new character. Instead, he brought a piece of his own charm to every role he played, making his performances all the more memorable.
Today, the Ref. 1680 Red Submariner stands as a testament to both the legacy of Rolex and the enduring influence of Robert Redford. It serves as a reminder of a time when watches were not just functional tools, but symbols of status and style.
