Rolex
sea-dweller transition triple six serie 8XX - Edition Full Set

Rolex Sea-Dweller vintage Triple Six watch from 1983 (series 8XXX) in full-set version.

An automatic diving watch with date display, black dial, unidirectional rotating bezel. This model is nicknamed “Triple Six,” a name derived from its reference number 16660, produced by Rolex between 1983 and 1989.

This collector's watch was the first Rolex Sea-Dweller to feature a sapphire crystal. Another key improvement: a new “Big Valve” helium escape valve, larger than its predecessor. Stronger and more durable, this valve is placed on the left side of a redesigned case, which increased to 40mm in diameter. The result: a water resistance rated at 1220 meters or 4000 feet.

The movement in this watch is the calibre 3035, a bidirectional automatic movement with 27 jewels, Breguet hairspring, full balance bridge, and KIF shock protection. It has a 48-hour power reserve after full winding and operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour. It is COSC-certified by the Geneva Observatory. It includes a quick-set date, a “Stop Seconds” feature to precisely synchronize the time by stopping the seconds hand, and a screw-down crown with twinlock waterproof system.

This rare transitional model followed the discontinuation of the Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665. The model presented here is one of the last 16660 references produced by Rolex. It can be identified by its serial number, original Rolex guarantee certificate (signed and stamped by an official French Rolex retailer), and MK2 dial with applied white gold surrounds: a characteristic “glossy dial” used in the early series of the 16660 during the transitional period between 1986 and 1989. From that year onward, all Sea-Dwellers of this reference would be equipped with glossy dials.

This Sea-Dweller is in perfect mechanical condition and has had its dial replaced by Rolex with a service dial (original Rolex part, with applied indices). It is sold full-set, with its original Rolex box and papers. A transitional model with serial numbers indicating it is among the last of its kind produced by Rolex, this rare 1983 watch is becoming increasingly hard to find. Its mechanical condition and complete documentation make it even more desirable… a true invitation to dive into turquoise waters.

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