Rolex · Dec 24, 2025

Matching the Rolex Red Sub 1680: Strap Recommendations That Enhance the Red “SUBMARINER” Dial

The Rolex Submariner Date 1680 “Red Sub” is one of the most collectible vintage Rolex references — defined by its red SUBMARINER text, acrylic crystal charm, and classic tool-watch proportions. This guide explores the best strap pairings for the Red Sub 1680, from OEM-style black leather and charcoal crocodile to earthy brown chèvre, bold red dappled leather, and refined vintage-inspired options.

Discover fitment tips, color pairing ideas, and strap recommendations that elevate the character of your Rolex Red Sub without losing its heritage.

In This Guide :

About the Rolex Red Submariner Date 1680
Strap Fit & Buying Checklist
Best Strap Materials for the Rolex Red Sub 1680
Our Top Replacement Strap Picks
Installation & Daily Use Tips
What Our Customers Say
Supported Models
FAQ

1. About the Rolex Red Submariner Date 1680

The Rolex Submariner Date ref. 1680 “Red Sub” is one of the most iconic vintage Rolex references ever made — and arguably one of the most emotionally collectible. The single line of red “SUBMARINER” text transforms an already legendary dive watch into a grail-level piece with instant recognition.

What makes the Red Sub special isn’t only rarity — it’s the way the watch feels on the wrist:

Acrylic crystal warmth and distortion
Classic matte dial + tritium patina
Perfect vintage proportions
That one red detail that changes everything

Because the Red Sub is such a character watch, the right strap pairing can either enhance the vintage aura or completely modernize its presence — without touching the watch itself.

2. Strap Fit & Buying Checklist

To get the best fit and vintage-correct look on a Red Sub 1680, here are the key points buyers should check :

Lug Width : Most Rolex Submariner 1680 models use 20mm lug width.
Strap Thickness Matters :
Vintage Submariners wear best with straps that are :
- not overly thick at the lugs
- tapered toward the buckle
- comfortable under the case profile (especially if you wear it daily)

3. Best Strap Materials for the Rolex Red Sub 1680

Below is a clear, buyer-friendly material guide (not confusing, but still informative).

Material	Why It Works on the Red Sub 1680	Best For
Italian Leather (Vintage-Refined)	Soft, elegant, and improves comfort without losing tool-watch DNA	Daily wear, collectors, “one strap” solution
Crocodile Leather (Charcoal / Black)	Adds boutique-level refinement while keeping classic Sub styling	Elevated vintage look, formal outfits
Chèvre (Goat Leather)	Ultra comfortable, lightweight, matte texture—perfect for vintage Rolex	Long wear, warm vintage tones, understated luxury
Dappled / Pebbled Leather (Red / Black)	Adds texture and depth; red tones echo the dial text beautifully	Bold pairing, personality build, collector statement
Canvas (Vintage Tool-Watch)	Keeps the utilitarian identity alive, especially for casual styling	Summer wear, vintage sport vibe, lighter feel

4. Our Top Replacement Strap Picks

All Liger straps can be built with vintage-appropriate proportions and finishing, so the Red Sub feels balanced — not bulky. Below are the strongest pairings we recommend based on what buyers actually want when searching “Red Sub strap”.

The “Never Wrong” Setup — OEM-Style

Elevates the Tintin into something truly special — Ideal if you want the Tintin to feel intentional and cohesive.

Croco Black

Double Ridge Black

Deutron Red (Waterproof)

Collector-Grade Modern Vintage

This is the “quiet flex” pairing — it looks serious, refined, and unusually good under natural light.

Croco Charcoal

Chevre Terre Brulee

The “Vintage Tool Watch” Revival

If you want the Red Sub to feel like a true 1970s dive tool again — but softer and richer

Minerva Walnut

Diablo Tobacco

Ostrich Leg Brown

Croco Tobacco

For the True Red Sub Lover

This is for enthusiasts who want the strap to echo the red text — not compete with it.

Dappled Red

Ostrich Leg Brick

5. Installation & Daily Use Tips

A vintage Rolex deserves careful handling. Here’s how buyers can protect their 1680 during strap swaps:

Use a soft cloth under the lugs to prevent scratches
Use a quality spring bar tool (fine tip)
If your watch has older spring bars, consider replacing them before frequent strap changes
For leather straps: avoid water exposure, and wipe after wear
Rotate straps to extend lifespan and keep leather fresh

6. What Our Customers Say

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My Red Sub is usually on bracelet, but the Charcoal Croco made it feel like a completely different watch — still vintage, just more refined. It looks like something you’d see in a collector’s vault.”

— Daniel R., Hong Kong

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The warm brown Chèvre strap is unreal on the 1680. It pulls out the patina and makes the whole watch feel softer and more wearable. I didn’t expect it to change the vibe this much.”

— Oliver M., Melbourne

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I’ve always loved the red text, so I tried your Dappled Red strap for fun — and it actually works. It feels bold but still tasteful because the watch is so classic.”

— Marcus T., Los Angeles

7. Related Models We Support

We can build straps tailored for many vintage and modern Rolex cases, including classic lug profiles.

Popular Rolex models we support include:

Rolex Submariner (vintage + modern)
Rolex Submariner Date (including 1680 / 16610 / modern references)
Rolex GMT-Master / GMT-Master II
Rolex Sea-Dweller
Rolex Datejust
Rolex Day-Date
Rolex Explorer / Explorer II

If your reference has a unique fit requirement (vintage lug shape, spring bar placement, or different taper), you can simply send us a photo and we’ll guide you.

8. FAQ

Q: What lug width does the Rolex Red Sub 1680 use?
A: The Rolex Submariner Date 1680 (including the Red Sub) typically uses a 20mm strap width.

Q: What strap color makes the red “SUBMARINER” text stand out the most?
A: Black and charcoal keep the dial clean and let the red text pop naturally. If you want a more expressive look, a deep red dappled strap can echo the text in a collector-style pairing.

Q: Does brown leather work on a black-dial Submariner?
A: Absolutely — especially on vintage models like the 1680. Warm brown tones bring out patina, creamy lume, and faded inserts, giving the watch a more vintage tool-watch personality.

Q: Is crocodile leather too dressy for a Submariner?
A: Not if you choose the right tone and finish. Charcoal or matte black croco can look extremely “collector-correct” — more like a refined vintage pairing than a formal dress strap.

Q: Can I use my original Rolex buckle or clasp with your straps?
A: Often yes, depending on your buckle/clasp width. If you send a photo of your clasp/buckle, we can match the taper so everything fits properly.

Footer disclaimer :

Liger Straps is an independent strap maker. We are not affiliated with Rolex SA. All brand names, watch references, and trademarks are used for descriptive purposes only. Strap fitment may vary depending on case year, lug condition, spring bars, and prior servicing.