1988 Rolex Submariner 168000 - Patina and Rare Misprint Dial
They Call it the "Zubmariner"
The Reference 168000 is one of the shortest lived models in the history of the Submariner. Known to collectors as the Triple Zero, it was produced for only a nine month window in the late 1980s as a bridge between the vintage 16800 and the modern 16610. This was the specific reference that introduced 904L stainless steel to the dive line. This example features a rare printing error on the dial where the S in Submariner resembles a Z, leading to its designation among collectors as the “Zubmariner”. It represents a precise and brief moment of Rolex evolution that is far scarcer than the standard production models.
Collector Level Anomalies
What makes this specific piece stand out is the combination of its short production run and the specific aging of the dial. While modern Submariners rely on perfect, clinical finishes, this neo-vintage example has developed a distinct TV static dial patina. This textured aging across the black dial provides a depth and character that standard gloss dials cannot replicate. It offers the classic aesthetic of the five digit era, prioritizing the sleek, original case geometry over the bulky profile found in modern Rolex sports watches.
Textured Aging And Sharp Geometry
The overall condition is excellent. The stainless steel case retains its original lines and sharp lug transitions, showing that the integrity of the 904L steel has been well preserved. The bezel is sharp and rotates as intended, and the Oyster bracelet shows minimal stretch for its age. After passing our test bench, the automatic movement is running strong.
An Uncommon Daily Driver
This watch works because it carries three distinct layers of collectability into a classic daily driver: the nine month reference window, the printing error, and the unique dial patina. It maintains the full utility of a professional dive watch while offering the specific anomalies that serious collectors hunt for. For the buyer who wants the iconic Submariner silhouette but prefers a piece that looks different from every other one in the room, this is the choice. It is a historically significant configuration that is genuinely hard to replace.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
We are committed to providing a secure and seamless payment experience. Our site features a built-in payment processor that accepts most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). U.S. residents also have the option to pay via Zelle. If you prefer to pay via bank wire, which will be slightly cheaper, please send a text to 917-887-1584 so we can reserve the item you wish to purchase.
Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
Choose options
What Our Clients Say About Us
I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)
Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.
This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….
Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!
What Our Clients Say About Us
I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)
Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.
This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….
Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!