[Quark·Discontinued Rolex Appreciation] Rolex Sea-Dweller in the 1990s

2023-10-12

The third-generation Sea-Dweller Ref.16600 appeared around 1991 and was discontinued around 2008. It has not changed much in appearance from the previous generation Ref. 16660. While inheriting the basic design and specifications, it has made some improvements to improve the practicality and reliability of professional diving watches . The movement has become the 3135 movement, and the movement of Ref.16660 is 3035. In its more than ten years of production, it has undergone several details changes, and these details are loved by some watch fans. In 1998, the extension of the bracelet changed from a plate shape to the same shape as the watch section, and the luminous paint also changed to Luminova in the same year; in 2003, the lug perforations changed from through-through to semi-through-out. An anti-counterfeiting laser crown was added to the six o'clock position of the mirror; in 2007, its warranty card changed from paper to plastic.

Let me share a 1997 Sea-Dweller Ref.16600 T prefix. The production period of the third generation Sea-Dweller is relatively long. For old Rolex fans, the style in the 1990s has a unique charm. I personally think that the tritium luminous light is its highlight that is difficult to let go. Moreover, the design of the old watch strap and side piercings also looks very fresh today. The five-digit sports models (except the Ref. 14060M model) have changed from separate headbands to integrated headbands in 2001. The Sea-Dweller has become a one-piece head since the Ref.16660 in the 1980s. The high performance other than waterproof performance is also the reason for the popularity of the Sea-Dweller.

Next, take a look at the picture of the dial below. The tritium luminous light on the dial fades into a soft cream color, which looks a bit antique, and there is no obvious damage or graininess on the dial. The condition of the watch case is also very good. The quality here mainly refers to whether there is excessive polishing or large bumps and scratches. Watch friends can also choose second-hand watches based on this The editor has seen a few watches that friends polished by themselves. The original polishing workmanship of the watch has been greatly changed. The first impression is that it looks like a watch. If it must be fully polished, I feel that it is better to leave it to some . Professional and reliable watch repairman. Personally, the editor doesn't like to polish his watch, preferring its original traces of use. Many of my friends around me think the same way.

The bezel of the Sea-Dweller in the picture is also in good condition, and the luminous dots on it have also changed color slightly, complementing the color of the dial. The 93160 strap with the number 592B is equipped with a special hard strap for the Sea-Dweller model. The strap almost does not feel loose. This is also an important point to judge the condition of the strap. Moreover, the strap on the buckle is The engraved number V is also consistent with the era. Relatively speaking, Ref.16600, which has a larger circulation, is still relatively easy to find. It should feel good to get started. If you maintain it regularly, it will not lose money. Of course, everyone has their own preferences, and it is normal to have different opinions and aesthetics. I hope the above content will be of some reference value to everyone when choosing watches in the future.