Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Dec 12, 2025

LOT 149

ROLEX, SWITZERLAND, REF. 16800, 16800 COMEX

EUR 80,000 - 120,000

CHF 75,000 - 112,000 / HKD 730,000 - 1,090,000 / USD 93,000 - 140,000 / JPY 14,490,000 - 21,740,000

A very rare and historically important stainless steel automatic diver’s wristwatch with date, helium escape valve, comex logo dial, full serial engraved inside the backcase, documentation from jacques bianchi marseille and rolex service from 2014.


Grading System
Grade:
Case: 2-6

Very good

Slightly oxidized

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3-50-05

Good

Refreshed

HANDS Luminous material reapplied

Brand Rolex, Switzerland

Model 16800 COMEX

Reference 16800

Year 1982

Movement No. 815565

Case No. 7276928/ 6087

Bracelet Stainless steel Rolex bracelet (93150/593), clasp code E010, approx. overall length 180mm.

Diameter 40

Caliber 3035, 27 jewels

Signature dial, case and movement

Accessories Jacques bianchi service card and documentation

Notes

The present watch is an exceptional example of the Rolex Submariner reference 16800 “COMEX”, one of the most iconic professional diver’s watches ever produced by Rolex for the legendary French deep-sea engineering company COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertises). Delivered in the early 1980s, this model represents the evolution from the early 5514 and 1680 COMEX tool watches to the new generation featuring the sapphire crystal and the improved calibre 3035, combining professional functionality with greater precision and durability.

The matte black “COMEX” dial displays the company’s distinctive white logo above the depth rating, giving it an unmistakable presence and historical significance. Hands have been professionaly relumed and dial probably refreshed.

This reference 16800 also features the helium escape valve on the side of the case, a hallmark of Rolex’s partnership with COMEX, issue number 6087and the unidirectional graduated bezel, enhancing its robustness and diving capabilities.

Powered by the automatic Rolex calibre 3035, this Submariner provides both date and chronometer-certified precision, making it one of the most advanced professional watches of its era.
The watch is accompanied by its service papers from Jacques Bianchi Marseille, official Rolex and COMEX service partner renowned for the maintenance of professional diving instruments, further confirming its authenticity and traceable professional provenance.

A remarkable and historically important Rolex Submariner reference 16800 COMEX, combining technical innovation, professional heritage, and preserved authenticity, a key model in the evolution of Rolex’s collaboration with COMEX, and a must-have for the serious Rolex tool-watch collector.

Provenance

Property of a french gentleman