1984 Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 'Triple Six' MK1 ‘Pallettoni’ dial

The Rolex Sea Dweller Ref. 16660, also known by collectors as ‘Triple Six’, was released in 1978 as a replacement of the 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 the Ref. 16660 are known as a ‘tranisitional’ model as it shared many characteristics of the 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 the Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 ‘Triple 6’ that dates to 1984.

 

The MK1 dark gray matte ‘Pallettoni’ dial is in stunning condition, letting visible only very minor signs of wear. It features a lovely sandy patina hue on the lume plots and on the matching hands.

 

The freshly polished stainless steel case remains thick, presenting hardly any signs of wear at all, and following factory finishes. The case back remains in the same condition. The inner case back is correctly engraved. The original bezel insert has some normal marks and the pearl/pip has aged to a darker patina hue.

 

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

 

The original sapphire crystal is clean.

 

It comes suited on its recently polished and original Rolex Oyster 93160 stainless steel bracelet with 592 end links, clasp code H and divers’ extension that presents very little stretch and, again, minimal signs of wear.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request, as well as movement and inner case back pictures.