Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 - Specifications, Prices and Owners' Reviews

14 years ago, I bought this Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600, thinking I was making a good choice. And after all these years, I am still convinced that it was. There is something special about this watch, it has also become unique with a leather strap that is the polar opposite of the original strap! But maybe it is simply the bond I have developed with it over time. Robust and discreet, in my eyes at least, I particularly appreciate its 40 mm case, which gives it a perfect balance. But in my opinion, what really sets it apart is the absence of a cyclops on the date. Some would say that it is a drawback, but personally, I find that it reinforces its charm. As for its weight (144 g), slightly higher than that of a Submariner, I feel it as a sign of solidity, but I can understand that others perceive it differently. Performance-wise, it has rarely disappointed me. With its caliber 3035 or 3135 - suddenly I have a doubt - it remains remarkably precise, even after all these years, but maybe I am not picky enough to notice small variations. I have only had one service in 14 years, which seems more than enough, but who knows, maybe I should be more vigilant? What I also like is the natural wear it has developed over time. Its tritium indexes have acquired a subtle patina, and the aluminum bezel shows some signs of use. Does this add to its character or is it simply a sign that it is aging? The Oyster bracelet has undoubtedly had its day, but I continue to maintain the magic of this watch with a top-notch custom-made crocodile leather strap - or alligator perhaps - from ABP Concept in Paris - besides, I should have chosen the hand-sewn one which has more charm. In a “blue-jean” color with white stitching, it transforms my SD by making it unique and more discreet… it gives it an extra soul! I could say that this watch is the best watchmaking decision I have ever made, but maybe that’s just my attachment talking. All I know is that it has followed me for all these years, and that it continues to move me day after day. Is it exceptional, or have I simply learned to love it? In any case, it is unique…

For several years I have regretted having sold my Sub 14060 but I found it a little strange to buy the same reference for a higher price. I then became interested in the Sea-Dweller, with an aesthetic close to the Sub but with even more impressive performances, while remaining on the same format. I finally found the 16600 that I was looking for, in a condition close to new (although this one is almost 20 years old). I find that it combines robustness and elegance to perfection.

As far back as I can remember, I have always had a weakness for classy watches, with a "diver" style and although I myself am a diver in my spare time, far from me the idea that it replaces a good dive computer but the submariner or derivatives are must-haves from the brand with the crown IMHO. After that I am not a fan of the bubble with the date and for all that I animate the date on a watch. Then my criteria: a taste for old but although a 5513 or a 1680 attract me, the budget of the versions and years that interest me distances me from it and then I had this opportunity not so long ago... a full set SD 16600 from 2004 as we like to specify, with the chance to have a new and perfectly original insert (Olivine could not have said it better 😅) and on the watch another insert also original but having lived and with a patina worthy of a vintage from the 70s-80s!. This one leaves my "wish list" and enters my collection which to the great displeasure of those around me is expanding in a continuous flow!