The Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 holds a special place in the hearts of many watch enthusiasts, particularly in Australia. This article delves deep into the world of the Rolex 16600, focusing on its history, specifications, value, and the Australian market. We'll explore where to find them, who's buying them, and what makes this particular model so desirable. The sheer volume of ROLEX repeated in the provided prompt underscores the brand's iconic status and the fervent interest surrounding its timepieces, especially a model as robust and historically significant as the 16600.
Who Bought the Rolex 16600?
The Rolex 16600, produced from 1988 to 2008, appealed to a broad range of individuals. Its professional diver's credentials attracted serious divers, both recreational and commercial. The robust build and exceptional reliability made it a favourite among those working in demanding environments, from offshore oil platforms to underwater research. Beyond the professional sphere, the 16600 also attracted collectors and enthusiasts drawn to its understated elegance and impressive history. In Australia, its popularity mirrored global trends, with buyers ranging from seasoned watch collectors to individuals seeking a durable and prestigious timepiece for everyday wear. The Australian market, with its strong diving culture and appreciation for luxury goods, created a solid demand for this model. The demographic likely included affluent professionals, entrepreneurs, and individuals with a passion for diving and horology.
Rolex 16600 Specs:
The Rolex 16600 boasts impressive specifications that contributed to its enduring popularity. Key features include:
* Case: 40mm Oyster case, crafted from highly corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel. This material offers exceptional durability and scratch resistance, crucial for a professional diver's watch.
* Movement: Calibre 3035, an automatic self-winding movement known for its reliability and accuracy. This movement is a workhorse of Rolex, renowned for its robustness and longevity.
* Water Resistance: A remarkable 610 meters (2000 feet) of water resistance, making it suitable for the most demanding diving conditions. This depth rating underscores its professional diving heritage.
* Crystal: Sapphire crystal, virtually scratch-proof and providing excellent clarity.
* Bezel: Unidirectional rotating bezel, crucial for safe diving as it prevents accidental adjustment during a dive, ensuring accurate tracking of dive time.
* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet, featuring solid links and a secure clasp, ensuring comfort and durability even during prolonged wear.
Rolex 16600 Production Years:
The Rolex 16600 was in production from 1988 to 2008, a significant 20-year run. This extended production period allowed many individuals to acquire the watch, contributing to its widespread availability (though finding pristine examples is becoming increasingly challenging). Variations within the production run, including subtle dial changes and bracelet evolutions, further fuel the interest of collectors. Identifying the specific year of manufacture requires careful examination of the serial number and other details. Australian buyers would have had access to the full production run throughout this period, experiencing the same variations in the model as seen globally.
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