1984 Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 'Triple Six' MK2 'Pallettoni' Box and Papers

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 later 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, in our modest opinion, the best example we’ve seen of an early matte version of the Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16660 ‘Triple 6’ with ‘Palletoni’ dial. It dates to 1984.

 

The MK2 gray matte dial is in lovely condition, letting visible only very minor signs of aging. It features a stunning pumpkin patina hue on the lume plots and on the original matching hands.

 

The stainless steel case remains very thick and sharp, presenting no mayor dents or scratches, just normal signs of use. The stainless steel bezel remains sharp too. The MK2 case back remains in the same condition. Inner case back is stamped 16660.

 

The original bezel insert is outstanding, having faded to a very uniform light gray-blue hue, giving the watch tons of character. The original tritium pearl/pip shows a matching patina.

 

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

 

The original sapphire crystal is clean with no scratches. There are some minor hairlines at 6 that remain sitting in the inner surface of the crystal.

 

It comes suited on the original 20mm Rolex Oyster 93160 stainless steel bracelet with 592 end links, clasp code H and divers’ extension marked S, that presents very little stretch and, again, only normal signs of wear.

 

This example comes as a full set which includes outer box with reference sticker, inner box, manual, and original punched guarantee papers showing it was sold by an Italian Retailer on August 1985.

 

This is indeed a unique opportunity to own a very rare Sea-Dweller transitional reference in unbeatable condition.

 

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