1984 Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 'Triple Six’ MK1 ‘Palletoni’ dial Full Set

The Rolex Sea Dweller Ref. 16660, also known by collectors as ‘Triple Six’, was released in 1978 as a replacement of Ref. 1665, and so, it is considered a transitional model. In the early years of production, the 16660 was made alongside the 1665, but the two watches were very different. The tested depth rating rose from 610m up to 1220m/4000 ft thanks to the addition of a sapphire crystal and a larger and more reliable helium escape valve. It was also equipped with a new caliber; the 3035 (replacing the 1575 in the 1665).

 

The early batches came with matte dials, while the lates batches were fitted with glossy dials. Also, the earlier matte dials came with hour lume plots not surrounded by metal, also called ‘Palletoni’, and were produced until about 1985. Latter glossy dials came with white gold surroundings called “Bicchierini”.

 

This is the reason why these early versions of Ref. 16660 are known as a ‘transitional’ model as it shared many characteristics of Ref. 1665. Rolex eventually discontinued the Ref. 16660 in 1988 leaving space for the newer Ref. 16600.

The watch offered here is an early matte version of a Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 ‘Triple 6’ that dates to 1984.

 

The MK 1 dark gray matte dial is in stunning condition, letting visible only very minor signs of aging. It features a lovely vivid patina hue on the hour lume plots and on the matching hands.

 

The stainless steel case remains thick, presenting previous light signs of polishing and no mayor dents or scratches, just normal signs of use. The case back remains in the same condition, with all printings visible. The stainless steel bezel remains sharp. The original bezel insert is simply stunning, having faded to a very uniform gray-blue hue, giving the watch tons of character. The tritium pearl/pip has aged to a dark camel hue.

 

It is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

 

The original sapphire crystal is clean.

 

It comes suited on its original Rolex Oyster 93160 stainless steel bracelet with 592 end links, clasp code I1 and divers’ extension marked S, that presents little stretch and, again, only normal signs of wear.

 

Furthermore, it comes as a full set which includes outer box, inner box, wallet, calendar, Buehlmann table card, manuals, guarantee pouch with reference sticker, and original guarantee papers.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request.