The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 16600 holds a revered position within the horological world, a testament to Rolex's commitment to pushing the boundaries of diving watch technology and design. This article delves deep into the specifics of this iconic timepiece, exploring its history, specifications, value, and the reasons behind its enduring popularity. From its production years and key features to its price and who typically acquired these exceptional watches, we'll uncover everything you need to know about the Rolex 16600.
Rolex 16600 Specs: A Technical Marvel
The Rolex 16600 Sea-Dweller is more than just a stylish wristwatch; it's a robust tool designed to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea diving. Its impressive specifications are a key factor in its enduring appeal.
* Case: The 40mm Oyster case, crafted from corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel, provides exceptional protection. Its unidirectional rotating bezel, with its distinctive graduated markings, allows divers to accurately monitor their dive time. The screw-down crown and caseback ensure watertight integrity.
* Movement: The heart of the 16600 is the caliber 3035, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and robustness. This workhorse movement, a staple in many Rolex models of the era, boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
* Water Resistance: A defining feature of the Sea-Dweller is its exceptional water resistance, rated to an impressive 4,000 feet (1,220 meters). This capability is achieved through meticulous engineering and the incorporation of a crucial component: the helium escape valve.
* Helium Escape Valve: This ingenious valve, located at 9 o'clock on the case, allows helium gas to escape during decompression after saturation dives. This prevents the pressure build-up that could damage the watch during ascent, a critical feature for professional saturation divers.
* Crystal: A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring readability even in low-light conditions.
* Dial and Hands: The dial is typically black, featuring luminous hour markers and hands for optimal visibility underwater. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is cyclops-magnified for easy reading.
These specifications, combined with Rolex's rigorous testing and quality control, make the 16600 a supremely reliable and durable instrument for professional and recreational diving.
Rolex 16600 Production Years: A Limited Run of Excellence
The Rolex 16600 Sea-Dweller was produced from 1988 to 2008. This relatively long production run, compared to some limited-edition Rolex models, reflects its enduring popularity and the consistent demand for a robust and reliable deep-sea diving watch. However, it's important to note that subtle variations occurred throughout its production, making each individual piece somewhat unique. Collectors often focus on specific details, such as dial variations and the evolution of the case construction, to identify and appreciate the nuances within the 16600 production run. Understanding the production year can significantly influence the watch's value and desirability.
Who Bought the Rolex 16600? A Diverse Clientele
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