Alright, so, I’ve been eyeing this classic Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 for a while now. I finally decided to make it happen. It’s not my first watch, but it’s my first Rolex, and I’ve always felt like this particular model is something special. I’ve done my research, like any enthusiast, and I’ve noticed the prices have been climbing steadily over the years. I mean, back in 2013, you could find one for around $5,000, and now they’re going for over $11,000. Crazy, right?
I started by looking around online, reading forums, and checking out some Japanese websites. I wanted a piece with that nice, aged look, you know, the kind that shows it’s been loved and worn. I found a few options, but nothing really clicked until I stumbled upon a listing from a seller in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The photos showed a 16600 with a beautifully faded dial, that classic “tritium” look. This was the one. So I took a deep breath and made the purchase.
- Scouring the internet for listings: This took up a good chunk of my time, comparing prices, conditions, and seller reputations.
- Contacting the seller in Japan: Thankfully, they were responsive and helpful, answering all my questions about the watch’s history and condition.
- Making the payment: Let me tell you, sending that much money overseas was a bit nerve-wracking, but I used a trusted payment method and hoped for the best.
- Waiting for the shipment: The anticipation was killing me! Every day I tracked the package, hoping it would arrive safely.
The Big Moment
Finally, the day arrived. The package was delivered, and I carefully opened it. And there it was, the Sea-Dweller 16600, even better in person than in the photos. It felt solid and substantial on my wrist. The weight, the feel of the bezel, everything was just perfect. It was like holding a piece of history, you know? This watch was designed for professional divers, and you can feel that heritage in its build quality. It’s the third generation of the Sea-Dweller, an upgrade from the Submariner, and just oozes that tool-watch vibe.
I spent the next few days just admiring it, wearing it around the house, getting used to the feel. I even took it to a local watchmaker to have it checked out, and he confirmed it was in great shape. I’ve been wearing it almost every day since, and I’m loving it more and more. It’s become my go-to watch. It’s not just a timepiece; it’s a conversation starter, a statement piece, and a reminder of a time when things were built to last. I’m so glad I finally pulled the trigger and added this beauty to my collection.
Click to consult