The Rolex Submariner 1680 is one of those references that doesn’t just “look vintage”, it feels vintage. The plexi warmth, the slightly softer case lines, the date magnifier that screams old-school Rolex. It’s the Sub that bridges eras, and depending on the dial variant, it can swing from understated to properly collectible.
And yes, most people picture it on a folded-link bracelet. But if you actually wear a 1680 regularly, straps are where the fun starts. Done right, it keeps the character of the watch while making it feel less precious on the wrist.
Strap size and fit for the Rolex 1680
Even with older references, the sizing basics still matter.
The Submariner 1680 is a 40mm case and uses a 20mm lug width. That’s the strap width you need.
On Helvetus product pages, make sure you select Submariner 40mm.
That exact selection is important. It’s what helps the strap sit properly against the case rather than looking like it’s “close enough”. On a vintage-style Sub, a slightly wrong fit is weirdly noticeable because the watch is all about proportion and harmony.
So if you’re ordering, don’t rush the dropdown. Choose Submariner 40mm and you’re set.
Best strap choices for the Submariner 1680
A 1680 has a different vibe than a ceramic Sub. It’s a bit more relaxed, a bit more romantic, and it looks great when you lean into a slightly retro, adventurous color palette. That’s why orange works so well here.
Black rubber
Black is the strap that never argues with the watch. On a 1680, it keeps everything classic: black dial, black presence, clean and purposeful. If your 1680 has patina, black rubber is the easiest way to let that aging do the talking without adding extra noise.
It also gives the watch a “wear it anywhere” feel. You don’t have to baby it. You don’t have to match it. Black just works, and it makes the watch feel like a proper diver again rather than a museum piece.
Orange rubber
Orange Submariner Rubber Strap
Orange on a 1680 feels right in a way that surprises people until they see it in person. It taps into that old dive-gear energy without trying to make the watch something it’s not. The watch stays vintage Rolex, the strap adds attitude.
This is the one I’d pick for summer, travel, weekends, and anything outdoors. It turns the 1680 into a conversation starter without looking like you’re chasing attention. The watch is already interesting. Orange just puts a spotlight on it.
Black/Orange LuxLine ® (deployant)
Black/Orange Submariner Rubber Strap
This is the “best of both worlds” option if you like orange but you still want the overall look to stay mostly classic.
The black base keeps the watch anchored, and the orange detail gives you that pop that works so well with the Submariner aesthetic. It’s also a smart choice if you wear the 1680 in more settings and you don’t want a full orange strap every day. Think of it like adding a small accent color to a black outfit. It’s controlled, but still fun.
On the wrist, it makes the date Sub feel sportier without stripping away the old-school charm that makes a 1680 special.
Buying the right strap from Helvetus
If you want to see more colors, or decide whether you’re a deployant person or a pin buckle person, the collection page is the easiest way to browse without getting lost:
Submariner Rubber Straps
There’s a variety of colors available, and straps come in both deployant and pin buckle versions. Some people love deployant because it feels secure and consistent, especially once it’s sized. Others prefer pin buckle because it keeps things simple and looks more traditional.
Either way, the key is that the straps are designed specifically to fit the Submariner case properly, so the watch looks intentional on the wrist, not “close enough”.
Wearing a 1680 should feel enjoyable, not stressful
A Rolex 1680 is collectible, sure, but it’s also a Submariner. It’s meant to be worn. A good strap helps you do exactly that without feeling like you’re taking a risk every time you leave the house.
That’s why the practical details matter: Helvetus backs the straps with a lifetime warranty, they’re designed for a precise fit for this Submariner size, you get free worldwide shipping, and you won’t get hit with import costs. Add the fact that Helvetus is trusted by 30,000+ customers worldwide, and it becomes a pretty easy decision to experiment with a strap or two instead of leaving the 1680 parked on its bracelet forever.
Black keeps it timeless. Orange makes it adventurous. Black/orange gives you the accent without the full commitment.
