rolex submariner 1985 price | Rolex Submariner vintage

The year 1985 was a significant one for the Rolex Submariner. It marked a period of evolution for this iconic dive watch, with new models being introduced and the existing lineup further solidifying its position as a horological benchmark. Understanding the Rolex Submariner 1985 price requires a comprehensive look at the models available that year, their original pricing, the impact of inflation, and the complexities of the vintage market today. This article will explore the 1985 Rolex Submariner, focusing on its value then and now, while also touching upon related topics like the 1985 Rolex Datejust, the Submariner's price history, and what to consider when buying a vintage Submariner.

The 1985 Rolex Submariner Lineup: A Snapshot

In 1985, the Rolex Submariner collection primarily consisted of two main models:

* Rolex Submariner No-Date (Reference 5513): This was the purest expression of the Submariner, a time-only dive watch with a simple, functional design. It featured a black dial, a black aluminum bezel insert, and a stainless steel case and bracelet. The 5513 had been in production for several decades, and 1985 marked a later year in its production run, making these models desirable to collectors seeking a classic and well-proven design.

* Rolex Submariner Date (Reference 16800/168000): The Submariner Date added the convenience of a date complication at the 3 o'clock position, magnified by the iconic Cyclops lens. In 1985, Rolex was transitioning between the 16800 and the 168000. The 16800 was a transitional model, featuring the quickset date function but still using the matte dial with painted tritium hour markers in early versions and gloss dials with white gold surrounds in later examples. The 168000, introduced shortly after, was largely the same, but replaced the 3035 movement with the 3035 movement.

* The Introduction of Two-Tone: 1985 was a year the two-tone Submariner (stainless steel and yellow gold) was introduced. This model was a significant departure from the purely functional aesthetic of the classic Submariner, adding a touch of luxury and elegance.

The 1985 Rolex Submariner Price: Then and Now

Understanding the original price of a 1985 Rolex Submariner provides a baseline for appreciating its value today. As the provided information states, the newly introduced two-tone Submariner was priced at $2,975 in 1985. This translates to roughly $7,364 in today's dollars, accounting for inflation. This adjusted figure gives us a sense of the watch's relative expense at the time of its release.

However, the value of a vintage Rolex is far more complex than simply adjusting for inflation. Several factors contribute to the current market value of a 1985 Rolex Submariner, including:

* Model and Reference: The No-Date (5513), the Date (16800/168000), and the two-tone models all command different prices, with the two-tone generally being the most expensive when new.

* Condition: A Submariner in excellent, original condition will fetch a significantly higher price than one that has been heavily worn, polished, or has non-original parts.

* Originality: Collectors highly value watches with all original parts, including the dial, hands, bezel insert, bracelet, and movement components. The presence of original paperwork, boxes, and accessories further increases the value.

* Rarity: Certain variations, such as those with specific dial markings or production anomalies, can be particularly rare and highly sought after by collectors.

* Provenance: A well-documented history, especially if the watch belonged to a notable individual or was used in a significant event, can add considerable value.rolex submariner 1985 price

* Market Demand: The overall demand for vintage Rolex watches fluctuates over time, influencing prices. The Submariner, being one of the most iconic and popular models, generally maintains strong demand.

Estimating Current Market Value:

Given these factors, providing an exact price for a 1985 Rolex Submariner is difficult without examining the specific watch in question. However, we can provide a general estimate based on current market trends: