Mk2, Matte 16660 Rolex Sea-Dweller

In many ways, the ‘triple six’ is the archetypal modern Sea-Dweller. While the 1665 is undoubtedly lore, a watch built to be invulnerable truly deserves sapphire in my eye. Moreover, it embraces the beastly proportions necessary to declare a 1220m depth rating. Early examples preserved much of the charm inherent to the 1665 with matte finish and generous tritium application. No cyclops, as god intended.

Some would call this Mk2 a transitional dial. The only distinction between this and the Mk1 is a longer Rolex coronet and alignments between the ‘f’ of ‘ft’ in relation to the letter ‘V’ in SUPERLATIVE’. Yes, this is how you know you’re buying Wilsdorf. Latter iterations, however, the Mk3 & 4, changed to a glossy dial with white gold surrounds. This change may seem slight, but marks a huge step into modern Rolex dial treatment and many collectors tend to prefer the flatter and larger lume applications. Both were the first Sea-Dwellers with a quickset date, as this reference introduced the calibre 3035 and a huge degree of usability. Sweet spot in the model’s history? Many seem to think so.

This example has a history and, despite that, presents very well. Its inner lugs and bracelet clasp have been engraved PH. The case itself is full, with factory lines. The dial is perfectly aged to a cream tone, matched in the handset. It comes recently serviced by Rolex from a well-regarded retailer.

Find this 16660 here from Bulang & Sons for 19900 EUR.