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Marcusviking · 5 January 2021, 02:00 PM

So just wanna hear your thoughts.

I have a been looking for a SD for some time.
Not a fan of cyclops and have wrists more suitable for 40mm so either 16600 or 116600. I have a Sub C no date and so the 16600 with aluminium bezel feel a bit more special to me. It will be a keeper so just wanna hear what you think.

What would you go for?

1. 1999 A-serial SWISS only dial

2. 2008 M-serial

Both in very good condition and papers/box.

Plan was to get one with lugholes and Super Luminova. The 1999 does all that and also has SWISS only dial as a bonus I think.
On the other hand the 2008 is last year of the 16600 which is nice too......

Thanks!

Rashid.bk · 5 January 2021, 02:12 PM

2008 M serial for me. It was my first Rolex and I regret selling it. In a perfect world I hope to buy a nice V serial in the future.
Such an awesome watch, the definition of a classic Rolex dive watch.

Joearch · 5 January 2021, 02:25 PM

I have an A series SWISS only 16600 SD. Perfect watch. Wearing it today. Perfect proportion, no cyclops and full of engineering. I think very classic. One of the favorites of my Rolex collection. Really a great piece.

Avs Fan · 5 January 2021, 02:42 PM

I bought my 16600 Z series in 2008 and still have and wear it. Great watch! If in comparable condition, can't go wrong with either, but I'd go with the 2008.

subtona · 5 January 2021, 02:55 PM

A serial will give you Lugholes!

faz · 5 January 2021, 02:55 PM

I always go for newer watches, I don’t appreciate the older vintage watches enough to pay premium for them.

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Watch Maniac · 5 January 2021, 03:23 PM

1999 A-serial SWISS only dial! I'm into the older stuff :)

Marcusviking · 5 January 2021, 07:10 PM

Thanks Joe for a great picture. To me greatest diving/toolwatch ever (that I can afford) =)

And thanks everyone for inputs!

Andad · 5 January 2021, 07:43 PM

My ‘M’ SD.

A masterpiece of Rolex engineering.

Andjwhite · 5 January 2021, 11:01 PM

Love mine from 1995 - tritium dial. If you’re not looking for tritium that will fade over the years I’d say you can’t really go wrong, Swiss only or 2008. I would probably go 2008 just to have the later production out of the two. Stay well.

Fin3908 · 5 January 2021, 11:36 PM

2008 it’s the last of the run.

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Goodwill63 · 6 January 2021, 12:25 AM

I'd go with the 2008 M which is not the last run, that would be the V serial. Great watch, bulletproof and correct proportions imho. Get it serviced for peace of mind and you're good to go for the next 7 or so years!

subx · 6 January 2021, 01:31 AM

one of the most perfect proportions classic divers Rolex made
I prefer lug holes,
I would not worry about Swiss or Swiss Made
I actually dont like too much Swiss because the dots age more cream than the hands on those, looks strange.

Setarip · 6 January 2021, 01:45 AM

2008 M serial!

Like a few others noted here, I would go with newer SD.

This was my first Rolex. This watch is so durable. You can’t really go wrong with either.

Good luck and post some pics after you purchase.

Here’s my 2004 F serial on a NATO.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Gerry62 · 6 January 2021, 02:38 AM

Absolutely my favorite Ser. M from ....... Sweden

my small collection could be monetized tomorrow, no problem, my SD16600T NO

Ketler · 6 January 2021, 03:45 AM

1999

Jackie Daytona · 6 January 2021, 03:59 AM

I would go with the 1999. Checks all the boxes you are looking for. I like the lug holes too, I wish mine had them. Since the SD is a bit more in the idea of a tool watch to me lug holes are a bit necessary to properly back that idea.

Rick_Nashville · 6 January 2021, 04:31 AM

I don't think you can go wrong with *any* 16600 (it's just that great of a watch), but personally, I would go for the best-condition, most carefully-worn, full-set example you can find. Any of the later serials (Y, F, D, Z, M) would be fine. Not sure how many V-serials are out there. I have a D-serial that I bought new from an AD in 2005. It has performed absolutely flawlessly over the last 15 years. It's keeping great time (+5 secs/day), and the accuracy might maybe even better if I wear it for a full 12-15 hours per day instead of wearing 2 watches @ 7 hours each, lol. It's one of my all-time favorite watches.

-Rick.

mudd · 6 January 2021, 04:35 AM

Had a Z serial. Loved that watch. Not heavy on the wrist and balances really well. Regrets for party with it.

drgoro · 6 January 2021, 05:29 AM

The most boring watch rolex ever made IMO, not to mention if you have a larger wrist the fit and visuals look off.

VintageVagabound · 6 January 2021, 05:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drgoro

The most boring watch rolex ever made IMO, not to mention if you have a larger wrist the fit and visuals look off.

So you prefer the one from ‘99?

cm70 · 6 January 2021, 08:32 AM

A serial best points
in the Swiss markII dial, it is the rarest 16600 variation, manufactured for a small period between 1998 and 1999 ... along with the Swiss dial, another transition is in the bracelet while the 93160A replaces the 93160 ... serif fonts insert with a marvellous 4... better set (two booklets, anchor)
M serial best points
it is newer and with no-hole lugs (for those who prefer)

Joearch · 6 January 2021, 12:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cm70

A serial best points
in the Swiss markII dial, it is the rarest 16600 variation, manufactured for a small period between 1998 and 1999 ... along with the Swiss dial, another transition is in the bracelet while the 93160A replaces the 93160 ... serif fonts insert with a marvellous 4... better set (two booklets, anchor)
M serial best points
it is newer and with no-hole lugs (for those who prefer)

Nice analysis

ABChop · 6 January 2021, 04:18 PM

I’m lucky enough to have both of those watches.
My daily wear is the GMT....love it!
I have not had my 16600 on much at all.

cm70 · 6 January 2021, 09:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joearch

Nice analysis

thank you
I had a 16600 Swiss (below in action in his element) and now I would like a M or V serial ...
just to taste a similar but different feeling ...:)

swish77 · 7 January 2021, 01:24 AM

Get the 16600 in the best condition. That's a lot more important than the relatively small differences in the 1999 vs. 2008 versions.

However, if the condition is virtually the same .... the lug holes win! The 16600 SD is an old-school watch to begin with, so why not embrace that even more with the lug holes?

Quote:

Originally Posted by drgoro

The most boring watch rolex ever made IMO, not to mention if you have a larger wrist the fit and visuals look off.

Strongly disagree with this sentiment. The 16600 is probably the coolest/best sapphire dive watch Rolex ever made, straddling the line between classic and modern. The size is perfect. The heft/thickness for a dive watch is perfect. And the overall feel is perfect.

Peter.dench · 7 January 2021, 05:42 AM

An absolutely fantastic watch. I also have a 2008 model.

Not to hijack the thread, but does anybody know if it is possible to buy a NOS bracelet from an RSC in the UK. Happy for them to keep mine, it just has some stretch, and would love it bought back to 'new'

judodave1964 · 7 January 2021, 05:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drgoro

The most boring watch rolex ever made IMO, not to mention if you have a larger wrist the fit and visuals look off.

Ridiculous statement.

Raffles · 7 January 2021, 07:49 AM

I have a 2008. I prefer the "no holes" case, although it does make switching the strap out slightly more difficult. Absolutely love mine, perfect size, proportion & weight and feels so comfortable on the wrist.

cm70 · 7 January 2021, 08:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gerry62

Absolutely my favorite Ser. M from ....... Sweden

my small collection could be monetized tomorrow, no problem, my SD16600T NO

ops !!! The Swedish ... well known Sea Dweller !!!!

5 January 2021, 02:00 PM	#1
Marcusviking "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: Sweden/Thailand Posts: 11	SD 16600 thoughts So just wanna hear your thoughts. I have a been looking for a SD for some time. Not a fan of cyclops and have wrists more suitable for 40mm so either 16600 or 116600. I have a Sub C no date and so the 16600 with aluminium bezel feel a bit more special to me. It will be a keeper so just wanna hear what you think. What would you go for? 1. 1999 A-serial SWISS only dial 2. 2008 M-serial Both in very good condition and papers/box. Plan was to get one with lugholes and Super Luminova. The 1999 does all that and also has SWISS only dial as a bonus I think. On the other hand the 2008 is last year of the 16600 which is nice too...... Thanks!

5 January 2021, 02:55 PM	#5
subtona "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: gus Location: East Coast Watch: APK & sometimes Y Posts: 26,540	A serial will give you *Lugholes*! __________________

5 January 2021, 02:55 PM	#6
faz "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2016 Real Name: Faz Location: California Watch: like'em all Posts: 4,689	I always go for newer watches, I don’t appreciate the older vintage watches enough to pay premium for them. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk __________________ -Faz Instagram @fazmoto

6 January 2021, 01:31 AM	#13
subx 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: usa Posts: 540	one of the most perfect proportions classic divers Rolex made I prefer lug holes, I would not worry about Swiss or Swiss Made I actually dont like too much Swiss because the dots age more cream than the hands on those, looks strange. __________________ 30 years of collecting Submariners.

6 January 2021, 03:59 AM	#17
Jackie Daytona 2024 ROLEX DATEJUST41 Pledge Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Real Name: Brian Location: Nashville Watch: 16750 Posts: 6,597	I would go with the 1999. Checks all the boxes you are looking for. I like the lug holes too, I wish mine had them. Since the SD is a bit more in the idea of a tool watch to me lug holes are a bit necessary to properly back that idea. __________________ 16750 \| 6516(wife’s) \| 126334 \| 16570 \| SBGA413 \| SRPE33 \| 126610LV

5 January 2021, 02:12 PM	#2
Rashid.bk "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas Watch: 12800ft = 3900m Posts: 11,173	2008 M serial for me. It was my first Rolex and I regret selling it. In a perfect world I hope to buy a nice V serial in the future. Such an awesome watch, the definition of a classic Rolex dive watch.

5 January 2021, 02:25 PM	#3
Joearch 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Real Name: Joe Location: Los Angeles Watch: Daytona + GMT BLNR Posts: 4,832	I have an A series SWISS only 16600 SD. Perfect watch. Wearing it today. Perfect proportion, no cyclops and full of engineering. I think very classic. One of the favorites of my Rolex collection. Really a great piece.

5 January 2021, 02:42 PM	#4
Avs Fan "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Colorado Posts: 2,502	I bought my 16600 Z series in 2008 and still have and wear it. Great watch! If in comparable condition, can't go wrong with either, but I'd go with the 2008.

5 January 2021, 03:23 PM	#7
Watch Maniac 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Dec 2020 Real Name: Joseph Location: Maryland Watch: 226570 Posts: 1,536	1999 A-serial SWISS only dial! I'm into the older stuff :)

5 January 2021, 07:10 PM	#8
Marcusviking "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: Sweden/Thailand Posts: 11	Thanks Joe for a great picture. To me greatest diving/toolwatch ever (that I can afford) =) And thanks everyone for inputs!

5 January 2021, 11:01 PM	#10
Andjwhite "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: USA Posts: 249	Love mine from 1995 - tritium dial. If you’re not looking for tritium that will fade over the years I’d say you can’t really go wrong, Swiss only or 2008. I would probably go 2008 just to have the later production out of the two. Stay well.

5 January 2021, 11:36 PM	#11
Fin3908 Banned Scammer Join Date: Jan 2020 Real Name: Fin Location: Georgia Watch: GMT, JC, SD4k,Dj Posts: 279	2008 it’s the last of the run. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

6 January 2021, 12:25 AM	#12
Goodwill63 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Real Name: Bill Location: Village of EQ Watch: 122613 Posts: 686	I'd go with the 2008 M which is not the last run, that would be the V serial. Great watch, bulletproof and correct proportions imho. Get it serviced for peace of mind and you're good to go for the next 7 or so years!

6 January 2021, 01:45 AM	#14
Setarip "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2019 Location: Margaritaville Watch: Rolex Posts: 625	2008 M serial! Like a few others noted here, I would go with newer SD. This was my first Rolex. This watch is so durable. You can’t really go wrong with either. Good luck and post some pics after you purchase. Here’s my 2004 F serial on a NATO. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

6 January 2021, 02:38 AM	#15
Gerry62 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Italy EU Watch: Rolex Panerai Posts: 7,484	Absolutely my favorite Ser. M from ....... Sweden my small collection could be monetized tomorrow, no problem, my SD16600T NO

6 January 2021, 03:45 AM	#16
Ketler "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2020 Location: USA Posts: 466	1999

6 January 2021, 04:31 AM	#18
Rick_Nashville 2024 ROLEX SUBMARINER 41 Pledge Member Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: USA Posts: 1,484	I don't think you can go wrong with any 16600 (it's just that great of a watch), but personally, I would go for the best-condition, most carefully-worn, full-set example you can find. Any of the later serials (Y, F, D, Z, M) would be fine. Not sure how many V-serials are out there. I have a D-serial that I bought new from an AD in 2005. It has performed absolutely flawlessly over the last 15 years. It's keeping great time (+5 secs/day), and the accuracy might maybe even better if I wear it for a full 12-15 hours per day instead of wearing 2 watches @ 7 hours each, lol. It's one of my all-time favorite watches. -Rick.

6 January 2021, 04:35 AM	#19
mudd "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: Texas Watch: 114060 Posts: 435	Had a Z serial. Loved that watch. Not heavy on the wrist and balances really well. Regrets for party with it.

6 January 2021, 05:29 AM	#20
drgoro "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Virginia Posts: 816	The most boring watch rolex ever made IMO, not to mention if you have a larger wrist the fit and visuals look off.

6 January 2021, 08:32 AM	#22
cm70 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: cagliari Posts: 132	A serial best points in the Swiss markII dial, it is the rarest 16600 variation, manufactured for a small period between 1998 and 1999 ... along with the Swiss dial, another transition is in the bracelet while the 93160A replaces the 93160 ... serif fonts insert with a marvellous 4... better set (two booklets, anchor) M serial best points it is newer and with no-hole lugs (for those who prefer)

6 January 2021, 04:18 PM	#24
ABChop "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Canada Posts: 671	I’m lucky enough to have both of those watches. My daily wear is the GMT....love it! I have not had my 16600 on much at all. __________________ - "M" 16600 Sea-Dweller - "A" GMT 16700. -“A” 16613LB Sub - 1680 Red Sub, Mark II, "Full Set" - 116660 DSSD D-Blue, 124060, 126613LN, 116710BLNR - 116500LN White Dial - “U” 16610 “SWISS” dial

7 January 2021, 05:42 AM	#27
Peter.dench "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: UK Posts: 111	An absolutely fantastic watch. I also have a 2008 model. Not to hijack the thread, but does anybody know if it is possible to buy a NOS bracelet from an RSC in the UK. Happy for them to keep mine, it just has some stretch, and would love it bought back to 'new'

7 January 2021, 07:49 AM	#29
Raffles "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Location: UK Midlands Watch: Sea Dweller 16600 Posts: 71	I have a 2008. I prefer the "no holes" case, although it does make switching the strap out slightly more difficult. Absolutely love mine, perfect size, proportion & weight and feels so comfortable on the wrist.

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