The Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. More than just a dive watch, it represents a significant chapter in Rolex's history of pushing the boundaries of horological engineering and underwater exploration. This article delves deep into the intricacies of the Rolex 16600, exploring its movement, specifications, history, value, and the passionate community that surrounds it. We'll cover everything from who originally bought these coveted timepieces to their current market value and where you might find one for sale.
Who Bought the Rolex 16600?
The Rolex 16600 wasn't solely purchased by professional divers, although they certainly formed a significant portion of its clientele. Its robust build and exceptional water resistance made it an ideal tool watch for underwater professionals – commercial divers, marine biologists, and underwater photographers, for instance. However, the 16600's appeal extended far beyond this professional niche. Its reputation for reliability, precision, and understated elegance attracted a broad spectrum of buyers, including serious watch collectors, adventurers, and individuals who appreciated the watch's blend of functionality and sophistication. Essentially, the 16600 appealed to anyone who valued a robust, dependable, and aesthetically pleasing timepiece capable of withstanding extreme conditions. This broad appeal is a testament to the watch's enduring design and engineering.
Rolex 16600 Specs:
The technical specifications of the Rolex 16600 are a crucial element in understanding its appeal. These specifications highlight the watch's exceptional capabilities and its position as a true tool watch:
* Movement: Calibre 3035, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its reliability and accuracy. This movement boasts a high degree of precision, typically within -2/+2 seconds per day. Its robust construction ensures reliable performance even under challenging conditions. The 3035 is a workhorse movement, known for its longevity and ease of servicing.
* Case: Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and scratch resistance. This material is incredibly durable, ensuring the watch can withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear, as well as the pressures of deep-sea diving.
* Crystal: Sapphire crystal, virtually scratch-proof and offering excellent clarity. This protects the dial and hands from damage, crucial for a watch designed for demanding environments.
* Water Resistance: 1220 meters (4000 feet) of water resistance, a testament to its diving capabilities. This impressive depth rating makes it suitable for even the most extreme underwater explorations.
* Bezel: Unidirectional rotating bezel, crucial for monitoring dive time. The bezel's precise clicks ensure accurate timekeeping during dives, a critical safety feature.
* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet, a comfortable and durable bracelet known for its strength and security. The solid links provide excellent support and resilience.
* Dial: Various dial configurations were available, including black and a more rarely seen, desirable "Maxi-Dial" with larger hour markers and hands.
These specifications combine to create a watch that is both highly functional and visually appealing. The 16600's robust construction and precision engineering are evident in every detail.
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