Introduction
First released in 1967, the Rolex Sea-Dweller was launched as an upgraded version of Rolex’s ever-popular Submariner collection. With an increased water resistance of 610m versus the Submariner's 200m and a helium-escape valve to alleviate pressure within the case during its wearer's ascent back to the surface, the Sea-Dweller was a dive watch truly built for professionals. Amongst its many variants, the ref. 16600T that we have here debuted in 1988 and saw the longest production periods out of any Sea-Dweller – 20 years, with its discontinuation in 2008 leaving room for Rolex to introduce the Deepsea. With its black dial and aluminum bezel, lack of cyclops date magnifier, solid end links, and comfortable 40mm stainless steel case, the Sea-Dweller ref. 16600T blends some of watchmaking's creature comforts, in its robust construction, with some pieces of vintage detailing like its bezel and old-style Oysterlock clasp that have enabled it to remain a truly iconic piece of Rolex design and engineering.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 10
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Guarantee Paper
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Sea-Dweller
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
16600T
Bracelet
Stainless Steel Oyster bracelet
Year
2006
Condition
Mint
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Guarantee Papers
Dial Color
Black
THE CONSTRUCTION
Measuring 40mm in diameter and just under 15mm tall, the Sea-Dweller ref. 16600T pre-dates Rolex’s move to make the Sea-Dweller a far larger watch than what inspired it, the Submariner, and hence retains a familiar wrist presence.
THE CONDITION
Presented in phenomenal new old stock condition, this example retains the majority of its original protective stickers and, hence, is just as ready to be worn by its new owner as it was when it left the Rolex boutique on the day it was first purchased.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
In overall outstanding unworn condition. Still retaining factory stickers, including its original green factory sticker to the case back. The watch in addition includes its original certificate of warranty.
Our Perspective
An iconic piece of watchmaking, it wasn’t often that these timepieces remained unworn and preserved in their original packaging. Such was the infancy of the watch investment market at the time compared to today; watches were typically worn as they were intended. As a result, watches like our example here are scarce indeed.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
