THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16660
YEAR: 1982
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 40MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
The Rolex 16660 Sea-Dweller is a testament to Rolex's legacy of creating watches that marry superior craftsmanship with technical mastery.
The 16660 was a game-changer when it was first introduced in 1978. Made alongside its predecessor, the 1665, the "Triple-Six" took the functionality of the Sea-Dweller lineup to another level; now equipped with an improved water-resistance rating of 1220 meters thanks to its robust case design, enhanced helium escape valve, and a sapphire crystal.
The present example dates back to 1982, boasting a beautiful matte dial which has acquired an attractive rich and even creamy patina on the tritium lume. The case remains in great shape after 42 years of life, with sharp bezels, strong lugs and crown guards. The insert has aged to a dark grey hue, complementing the watch perfectly. The pip is a later service replacement. The watch is powered by the upgraded calibre 3035 movement, featuring a quickset date function. The original full-link 93160/592 bracelet with the original "J" clasp is in equally good shape and has minimal stretch.
Matte dial 16660s in good condition are rare to come by, even rarer with a set like this; the watch comes with its original outer and inner boxes, booklets, wallet, anchor, tags, and the original guarantee. The watch has been freshly checked over and is running beautifully at -3 s/d, 255 amps, with a beat error of 0.1 ms. A vintage classic which combines the solid 5-digit Rolex construction and the 4-digit romance.