THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 16660
YEAR: 1985
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 40MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
Looking at the Rolex dive watch lineage over the past 70 years, the Sea-Dweller 16660 “Triple Six”, introduced in 1978, arguably represented the single biggest leap forward in technological advancement. Produced alongside its predecessor, the 1665, it featured a significantly improved water resistance of 1,220 metres, thanks to a more robust case, an enlarged helium escape valve, and, for the first time on a Rolex dive watch, a sapphire crystal. It set a new benchmark for professional dive watches. Nearly 50 years later, one could argue that these features still represent the blueprint for the modern dive watch.
During the early years of production, Rolex equipped the 16660 with matte “Pallettoni” dials. By 1983/84, glossy “Bicchierini” dials were introduced, like the example we have here. Even more so than other transitional Rolex models from this period, the 16660 exists with a remarkable variety of dial executions produced by several manufacturers, including Stern and Beyeler, despite having the lowest production numbers of any Sea-Dweller reference. It proved surprisingly difficult for the dial makers to perfect the glossy finish Rolex was aiming for. Some of these manufacturing "imperfections", together with the magic of time, have since produced some of the most beautiful dials in vintage Rolex collecting.
This 1985 example features a Mk4 dial manufactured by Lemrich, which has developed an extraordinary "Stardust" tropical patina. It is, by far, the most striking Triple Six we have ever had the pleasure of handling. The case has only been lightly polished in the past, and the original full-link 93160 bracelet shows only minimal stretch. This very watch belonged to a dear friend of Falco's, accompanying him around the world and to the depths of the sea.
The movement has been freshly checked over and is running beautifully at +2 s/d, with 285° amplitude and a 0.1 ms beat error. It comes complete with its original boxes, accessories, and guarantee.
An absolutely dreamy Rolex diver.