THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16600
YEAR: 1997
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES 
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Rolex Sea-Dweller, along with the Submariner is one of the most recognisable watches in the world. The Sea-Dweller was released in 1967 with the 1665 - the world's first watch to feature a helium escape valve. The basic design of the Sea-Dweller is very similar to the Submariner but the most obvious differences are the lack of a date cyclops and a slightly thicker case.

The model we have here, the 16600, is the third iteration of the Sea-Dweller family. Originally released in 1988, it was in production for a whopping two decades, finally being retired in 2008.

The 16600 is one of the models from the 90s that you rarely see with this level of patina. The markers have aged to a wonderful creamy colour as have the hands. The bezel has faded over time to a dark blue hue. The case is super strong and has seen little polishing, the original Z6 (Jun 1997) 93160 bracelet remains fully linked and in great condition. The caseback has an engraving from the original owner - a gift from father to son. The movement has recently been serviced and is running perfectly at +1 s/d, 280 amps, with a beat error of 0.1.

The watch is complete with everything it came with from new; boxes, papers, wallet, dive extension, tool, dive table, calendar, tags and booklets. This really is a stand out example of a superb reference.