Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 - Pumpkin
Straight Facts
The Sea-Dweller ref. 1665 first debuted circa 1967 and was designed for use during saturation diving. Designed for people who needed something more robust than what a Submariner can offer. Of course, as we know sometimes the earliest generation does not end up being the icon.
The key differentiator between a SeaDweller and Submariner, is that the SD always has a helium escape valve on the side, and usually a higher domed crystal with no cyclops magnifier. This - overall - created a much cleaner look.
This present “Triple 6” model comes from a transitional time for Rolex. At the time, Rolex was starting to straddle the line between the original ‘serious tool watch’ designs that Rolex intended for, and a high-cost luxury goods item. The matte dials gave way to high gloss dials which feature plots of lume surrounded by white gold, very luxurious! Since today you can purchase a Sea-Dweller in 18K Yellow Gold & Steel! - we all know which side won out between luxury and sport at the brand with the coronet!
However, this 1983 model still retains that matte dial that we as vintage collectors love so much. Moreover, look at that dial - which as aged and patinated to one of the richest and most stunning organe and pumpkin colors we have ever seen. Between the overall condition of the case and bracelet as well as the lume coloring - this is one for the history books! The overall condition of the watch is strong with no signs of abuse or over polishing throughout its life. That is no small feat as these were truly purchased only by serious professionals who used them in underwater feats of engineering!
*Some marks or spots on the dial are reflections or dust on the crystal and are due to high intensity strobe lighting used while photographing. They are not actually on the watch or visible in natural lighting.
About the brand
Case
Condition
Movement
Bracelet
Shipping & Returns
At Oliver & Clarke, domestic shipping is on us. If you are international and require a quote – please feel free to reach out to us at info@oliverandclarke.com so we can get you squared away!
Returns (accepted within 3 days of initial delivery of your purchase) must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. For payments via Credit Card, a 5% restocking fee will be in place for any returns or cancellations in order to cover our processing fee. Of course, watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.
If you happen to trade a watch with us, which we always love, trades are final, except of course if the watch is grossly misdescribed or misrepresented.
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From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.
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