1987 Rolex Submariner 40mm Ref. 16803 Two-Tone Blue/Purple Dial

Description

This 1987 Rolex Submariner Ref. 16803 pairs the model’s tool-watch DNA with an elegant two-tone steel and gold construction, topped off with an unusual and highly distinctive blue dial that shifts toward purple under certain lighting conditions. The 40mm case follows the classic Submariner formula, featuring a unidirectional rotating bezel, a screw-down crown for water resistance, and applied luminous hour markers that stand out crisply against the color-shifting dial. The dial’s gradient hue is a hallmark of aged tritium lume plots and dial materials from this era, giving each surviving example its own individual character that cannot be replicated in modern production. A gold cyclops lens sits above the date window at three o’clock, magnifying the day’s date while echoing the gold accents found throughout the bezel insert, crown, and center bracelet links. The two-tone Oyster bracelet combines brushed steel outer links with polished gold center links, secured by a fold-over clasp built for long-term durability. Inside, Rolex’s automatic movement continues to perform reliably decades after manufacture, a testament to the brand’s engineering standards. This example has been fully authenticated by our in-house team and presents in excellent condition, with the dial’s distinctive color transformation intact and case proportions well preserved. A genuinely eye-catching variant for collectors seeking something beyond the standard black-dial Submariner.