SD 16600 Market Prices

[ti30fo]

Currently in the market for a 16600 (superlum) and would appreciate some feedback from those who have already taken the plunge. Scoping a $7875 F serial (warranty dated 2004) and a $9975 M serial (warranted dated 2008, serviced dated 2019). Putting some work in to understand why there is a $2100 premium on the M when both are in excellent condition. I figure box and papers is worth a couple hundred extra (~300-500) while a service could be ~$600-$1000. Assuming box papers + service, min/max remaining difference leaves $1200-$700 of premium on the table. My approach could be off so happy to hear feedback from the experts. Thank you.

[dmhines]

Maybe no holes and SEL? Not sure if similar to 16610

[psv]

Many sellers/dealers have irrationally high expectations on what their watch is worth, or what they can take home from a sale. Since prices on used Rolex has risen continuously for 10+ years, they think they can price at future price and expect buyers to pay a premium.

Minty complete unpolished SD16600 has passed $10K in some cases, which is rather ridiculous for a watch that was produced for such a long time in such large quantities. Prices may settle down a bit now.

Regarding OP: you will have to pay a bit more for a watch that has original box and papers, especially if the watch has the original tool wallet, diving card and diving extension, probably $1,000 extra. A recent service is worth up to $500. The rest is up to you - how important is to find an unpolished one, what condition, nicks on crystals or bezel inserts, etc. I'd say anything from $6K to just shy of $10K at this point.

[swish77]

Need to see photos of both. There could be subtle differences other than the obvious, such as case condition.

Just based on the description, I'd say it sounds about right, assuming both SDs come with box and papers. The M series is newer and with a recent service. (The M and V series were the last of the 16600s, so that might be more appealing to some.)

Such a great reference. I miss mine. (D serial here, but I've also owned W, F and Z serials).

[ti30fo]

Thanks guys that was helpful. I will definitely see if more of that original stuff is included and see if this guy is willing to negotiate. My instinct is also that it's irrationally high.

[bzabodyn]

Compared to 5-digit subs and GMTs, the SDs are quite a bit more rare and there are a few iterations that are more desirable than others. And as with any watch that’s starting to age, condition and box/papers/full set all effect the price. Box and papers premium today for Rolex sport watches is well beyond $300-500 and in some cases can add as much as 40-50% depending on the model.

For instance, I have a mint/unpolished 16600 SD with Swiss only dial (one year only production plus lug holes and SEL bracelet) and all boxes/papers/accessories. I’ve turned down $10k offers recently because the odds of finding another one of THESE in this condition and with everything is rare. All depends on what you are looking for.

Good luck - the hunt is always the fun part.

BZ

[ti30fo]

Thanks bzabodyn. I definitely see your point on some of the older and truly vintage models where the premium for b/p could be much higher. However with the new models with serials such as k/y until about M, i would not expect such a premium given the shorter history of the watch.

[ti30fo]

I did notice something up with the 7K version of the watch that I was looking at. The HEV was flush with the side of the case and from what I know about examining several pictures, there is typically a slight inset. Wonder if anyone else knows this to be true?

[swish77]

Originally Posted by ti30fo

I did notice something up with the 7K version of the watch that I was looking at. The HEV was flush with the side of the case and from what I know about examining several pictures, there is typically a slight inset. Wonder if anyone else knows this to be true?

It should look like this, an untouched Z serial I sold last year. There is a very slight inset at the "lip" of the HEV, but keep in mind photos/lighting/shadows can be deceiving in photos on some sales listings. (Even in this photo, see how the top looks flush but the bottom appears as if it's recessed?) Also, a service would take care of any issues with an HEV. There's a little gasket in there that would be replaced.

[ti30fo]

Originally Posted by swish77

It should look like this, an untouched Z serial I sold last year. There is a very slight inset at the "lip" of the HEV, but keep in mind photos/lighting/shadows can be deceiving in photos on some sales listings. (Even in this photo, see how the top looks flush but the bottom appears as if it's recessed?) Also, a service would take care of any issues with an HEV. There's a little gasket in there that would be replaced.

Yes that's exactly how it should look but there was no doubt about it that there was no lip evident. Naturally the watch has since been taken down from the website now so I can't share it. Aside from Bobs Watches, DavidSW, and Crown & Caliber, does anyone know of any other reputable grey mkt dealers?

[swish77]

Originally Posted by ti30fo

Yes that's exactly how it should look but there was no doubt about it that there was no lip evident. Naturally the watch has since been taken down from the website now so I can't share it. Aside from Bobs Watches, DavidSW, and Crown & Caliber, does anyone know of any other reputable grey mkt dealers?

Sure, there’s a lot of other dealers and good individual sellers. Check out the sales section here. The slight issue you’ll have is that most dealers won’t often have a 16600. They stock mostly current modern models. Still, they definitely pop up once in a while, but mostly from individuals. They’re out there.

[harry in montreal]

I really miss my 16600. I bought it new in 2005 on worth ave in FL at the Tourneau for $4750. I sold it to my brother and he teases me when we wears it. I always felt the only drawback is the dial is a touch smaller when lined up with sub date of the same year. I much prefer a 16600 to a modern gmt, but I like metal inserts and the older sleeker case shape.

[ti30fo]

Thanks guys!

[Paul]

Originally Posted by harry in montreal

I really miss my 16600. I bought it new in 2005 on worth ave in FL at the Tourneau for $4750. I sold it to my brother and he teases me when we wears it. I always felt the only drawback is the dial is a touch smaller when lined up with sub date of the same year. I much prefer a 16600 to a modern gmt, but I like metal inserts and the older sleeker case shape.

A SeaDweller 16600 from year 1999 (no lug holes) was my daily wearer for many years. My only ever full box and papers set watch, and such a sad day when I shipped it out a year or so back.

To make myself feel better, I've convinced myself that the market's obsession with Subs and GMTs' will keep a cap on the value of 5 digit SeaDwellers , so perhaps I'll put one back in my collection some time down the track.