Introduction
Debuting in 1967, with the specific aim of bolstering Rolex's dive watch offering, the Rolex Sea-Dweller built upon the industry-leading dive watch credentials that the Submariner had earned Rolex over the previous 14 years. Created specifically with professional divers in mind, Rolex collaborated with diving companies like COMEX to perfect the Sea-Dweller's design and ensure it would be the ultimate dive watch. Featuring the ingenious Helium-Escape Valve that Rolex had patented the same year, a hugely impressive water resistance, and a sizeable case design, the Sea-Dweller rightfully toppled the Submariner as Rolex's most hardcore dive watch. Today offered in a few separate styles such as two-tone, with various dials, and in two different case sizes (43mm and 44mm), the Sea-Dweller has taken a leaf from the rest of Rolex's offerings and merged its tool-watch focused design with tasteful aesthetics, to create one of the most sought-after and best-equipped dive watches that any diver might ever need.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Papers, Booklets, Serial Numbered Hang Tag, Accessories
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
40mm x 15mm
Model
Sea-Dweller
Movement
Automatic cal. 3035
Reference
16660
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1989
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box, Papers, Booklets, Serial Numbered Hang Tag, Accessories
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Fitted with its pitch-black dial, this example's tritium luminescent hour markers stand out stunningly thanks to their deep yellow patina that is swallowed by the black dial and bezel that surrounds them.
THE SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL
While now ubiquitous amongst every Rolex model, the ref. 16660 introduced the sapphire crystal to the Sea-Dweller collection. Without a cyclops lens at 3 o'clock, this sapphire crystal sets itself apart from other Rolex models that feature the lens.
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
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light surface marks and signs of a previous polish. The case back retains black enamel within the engravings. The bezel remains well defined and the insert is very clean. The dial shows surface matting and the lume in the hour markers has aged to a cream hue. The hands show scratches and appear to have been relumed at some point. It is fitted with a steel bracelet showing light surface marks and negligible play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 14 links, 4 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7½” wrist. Comes complete with inner and outer boxes, punched papers, booklets, wallet with dive table and tool, document holder, calendar card, two hangtags (green with serial number), anchor, and cloth.
Our Perspective
A transitional model of sorts, the ref. 16660 ushered in a new era for the Sea-Dweller as it modernized the collection with its new movement and crystal, increasing its robustness and ability to perform to the highest standard as its wearers often needed.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
