The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 16600, produced from 1978 to 1999, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. This iconic diver's watch, a successor to the original Sea-Dweller, boasts impressive specifications and a fascinating history, making it a highly sought-after collectible today. Despite its relatively limited 20-year production run, subtle variations exist between models depending on the year of manufacture. This article delves into the specifics of the Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600, exploring its key features, variations, and the factors influencing its price.
Rolex 16600 Production Years and the Evolution of the Design:
The Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 was introduced in 1978, marking a significant evolution from its predecessor, the reference 1665. The 16600 boasted several improvements, including a more robust case and updated movement. Production continued until 1999, when it was replaced by the reference 16660. This twenty-year production span allows for a detailed examination of the subtle changes that occurred throughout its lifecycle. Understanding the production year is crucial for accurate identification and valuation.
Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref 16600: Key Specifications and Features:
At its core, the Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 is a tool watch built for extreme underwater exploration. Its key specifications include:
* Case: The 40mm stainless steel case is significantly larger than many other Rolex models of its time, providing substantial wrist presence and increased water resistance. The case is renowned for its durability and resistance to scratches and dents. The case back is typically solid, engraved with the iconic Rolex crown and other markings.
* Movement: The 16600 houses the caliber 3035, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its reliability and accuracy. This movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The movement is meticulously finished and decorated, a hallmark of Rolex craftsmanship.
* Water Resistance: The watch is water-resistant to an impressive 1220 feet (400 meters), making it suitable for professional diving applications. This exceptional water resistance is achieved through a combination of robust case construction, a screw-down crown, and a helium escape valve.
* Crystal: The 16600 features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, offering superior protection to the dial and hands from impacts and abrasions. Sapphire crystal is known for its clarity and resistance to scratching, a critical feature for a tool watch used in harsh environments.
* Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel, made of black aluminum, is crucial for timing dives. The graduated markings on the bezel allow divers to accurately monitor their dive time, a critical safety feature. The bezel's unidirectional rotation ensures that accidental rotation will not compromise the safety of the diver. Over time, the bezel inserts on some 16600s can fade or show signs of wear, adding character to the watch.
* Dial: The dial of the 16600 is typically black, although slight variations in color and lume application exist across different production years. The dial features luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring excellent readability in low-light conditions. The text on the dial is clear and concise, indicating the brand, model, and water resistance.
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