This conundrum which has likely been discussed many times before, so apologies in advance, but was unable to search such a unique topic!

In 1987 - 88 I purchased my first Rolex, which was a S/S Submariner Date.
I purchased from a High Street Jewellers in London, purely by just walking in and buying it..........remember those days and for under a thousand pounds!! If memory serves me correctly.

Back then I was totally oblivious to which model it was and whether it had a Matte or Gloss dial Perspex Glass or Sapphire Crystal and everything else that has been discussed to death.
Oh how (in hindsight) do I wish that it was still in my possession.
But from research may have been a 16800 or 168000.


Today, I am considering getting another S/S Submariner, but pre Ceramic models, so maximum of 5 digits.
My question is?
If you were looking to get, what IMO, is the classic S/S Submariner format, either with or without date, that is WR at least to swim with and ideally with B&P's hopefully to provide some provenance which of the following would you choice and why?
In reverse order :-)

16610

168000

16800

1680 (Sadly, not a Red, as I couldn't afford a genuine one)

5512 - 13

May I add that apart from the 168000 & 5513, I have owned & worn the others.

Would the 1680 and 5512/13 which has been correctly pressured tested be ok to swim with and use on a daily basis?

Please feel free to add some photos of your current or previous Subs :-)