The watch world is rife with legend and lore, whispers of collaborations, and the occasional outright fabrication. One such intriguing – and potentially misleading – story revolves around the “Rolex Cartier 1680.” Online listings, often with eye-catching images, showcase a Rolex Submariner Date 1680 featuring the word “Cartier” in red, usually dating back to the 1970s. This article delves into the mystery surrounding this watch, separating fact from fiction, and exploring the broader implications for Rolex and Cartier as investment pieces, as well as examining the individual elements of this fascinating watch.
The listing mentioned, priced at a substantial $93,198, details a Rolex Submariner 1680 Date from 1979 with the distinctive “Cartier” inscription in red. The watch is described as being in very good condition, and the details—reference number 1680, steel case, automatic movement—are consistent with genuine Rolex Submariners of that era. However, the presence of the “Cartier” marking is what immediately raises questions.
The Illusion of Collaboration: Debunking the Rolex Cartier Myth
The crucial point to understand is that there's no official record or evidence of a collaboration between Rolex and Cartier resulting in a watch bearing both brand names. While both brands represent the pinnacle of luxury timepieces, their histories and manufacturing processes are entirely separate. The idea of a joint venture, especially one producing a watch as iconic as the Submariner, is highly improbable.
The “Rolex Cartier 1680” likely represents a post-production modification. Several scenarios are plausible:
* Retailer Customization: High-end jewelers often customized watches for their clientele. Cartier, with its strong presence in the luxury market during the 1970s, might have added its name to a Rolex Submariner 1680 upon request from a discerning customer. This would explain the red “Cartier” inscription.
* Independent Engraving: A previous owner may have commissioned the addition of the “Cartier” marking, perhaps as a personal touch or to enhance the watch's perceived value. This is a common practice, though potentially detrimental to the watch’s authenticity and value in the eyes of serious collectors.
* Misrepresentation: In some cases, the “Cartier” marking might be a deliberate attempt to mislead buyers and inflate the watch's price. This is a serious issue in the luxury watch market, where counterfeits and misrepresented pieces are unfortunately prevalent.
Rolex or Cartier Investment: A Comparative Analysis
Regardless of the "Cartier" inscription, the underlying watch remains a Rolex Submariner 1680, a highly sought-after model. Both Rolex and Cartier watches are considered excellent investments, but their performance differs.
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