Rolex Sea-Dweller Reference 16660
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1988
Maker / issuer
RolexThe Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 16660, frequently referred to as 'Triple Six', is an automatic wristwatch from 1988, serial number R9XXXXX. This model features a 40mm stainless steel case equipped with a helium escape valve, allowing for water resistance to 1220 meters.
It is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3035 movement, which includes a quick-set date function. The watch displays a black glossy dial with white gold surrounds for the tritium markers, which have aged to a golden hue. The watch is fitted with an Oyster 93160 bracelet, end links 592, and includes a diving extension. The auction description indicates that the case is unpolished, retaining original factory finishes and chamfers despite signs of use.
It features an open 6 and 9 date disc and a unidirectional rotating bezel with a tritium luminous pearl.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Diver's watch
- Year
- 1988
- Maker
- Rolex
- Model
- Sea-Dweller (Ref. 16660)
- Serial
- R9XXXXX
- Caliber
- Rolex Caliber 3035
- Bracelet
- Oyster 93160
- Place recorded
- سوئیس
- Water Resistance
- 1220m
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Case and Dial
- The stainless steel case measures 40mm in diameter and is reported by the source to be unpolished. The case retains its original factory finishes, chamfers, and lugs, though it displays minor wear from use. A helium escape valve (HEV) is situated on the flank of the case to enable pressure equalization during decompression, supporting a water resistance rating of 1220 meters (4000 feet). The black glossy dial features tritium hour markers set within white gold surrounds. These markers have developed a golden patina over time. The date window utilizes a white background disc with open 6 and 9 numerals.
- Visible features
- • Open 6 and 9 date disc • Helium escape valve on the case flank • Golden-hued tritium indices • Tritium pearl on bezel insert
- Movement and Functionality
- The watch operates on the Rolex Caliber 3035 movement. This automatic caliber introduced the quick-set date feature, allowing for independent adjustment of the date display. The movement is enclosed in a case designed for high-pressure environments, incorporating advancements introduced in 1981, such as sapphire crystal and an updated unidirectional spring-loaded bezel. The source reports that the movement maintains time accurately, although no documentation regarding its past service history is available. All components, including the 93160 Oyster bracelet with 592 end links and the integrated diving extension, are presented as original to the assembly.
- Provenance and Documentation
- The reference 16660, known by collectors as 'Triple Six', represents a transitional phase in the evolution of professional Rolex diving watches. This specific unit is attributed to 1988 based on its serial number R9XXXXX. The information provided serves as a descriptive catalogue entry based on data supplied by the vendor.
Identification
- Reference
- 16660
- Serial number
- R9XXXXX
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The exact history of previous service is unknown
- Research required: The 'Frozen Dial' patina is subject to individual interpretation