Rolex 666 Submariner Vintage Dive Photos
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Rolex 666 Submariner Vintage Dive Photos

By Bill · Apr 2, 2015 · 30 replies
Bill
WPS member · Rolex forum
30 replies5788 views5 photos
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Bill shares a captivating post recreating the spirit of vintage Rolex advertisements, featuring his Rolex 666 Submariner in underwater settings. This article offers a unique blend of personal adventure and horological appreciation, inviting readers to explore the enduring appeal of dive watches in their natural element. Bill's creative photography and storytelling bring a fresh perspective to classic Rolex imagery.

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I always loved Rolex vintage ads with divers and submariners. So i thought i would try to reproduce the same kind of flavor.

Ok ok his grouper is bigger than mine but the other groupers i was playing with were camera shy. Actually we had no camera at the time so junior with have to do.

My trusty Rolex 666 from around 1985 will be the second star next to the grouper.








We have a few other friendly fish to play with. This included a hammer head who was much deeper.




And of course us crazy guys taking wrist shots underwater.





Also a trusty vintage Seiko Diver was with the younger me. Just 25 meters but good for the vintage guys.




I hope you enjoyed the trip.

Bill


Ps once you have played with a grouper it is pretty much impossible to eat them again.

About the Rolex 16660 Ref. 16660

The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 16660, often referred to as the "Triple Six," represents a significant transitional model within the Sea-Dweller lineage. It was the first Sea-Dweller to incorporate a sapphire crystal, a crucial upgrade that enhanced its pressure resistance and durability compared to its plexiglass predecessors. This reference also marked the introduction of a larger helium escape valve, further solidifying its professional dive watch credentials and distinguishing it from earlier iterations. It bridges the gap between the vintage four-digit references and the more modern five-digit models.

This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel Oyster case, designed for extreme depths. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 3035, a robust movement known for its reliability and quick-set date function. The watch is equipped with a sapphire crystal, contributing to its impressive water resistance of 1220 meters (4000 feet). The unidirectional rotating bezel allows for precise timing of immersion, and the Oyster bracelet ensures secure wear during demanding activities.

For collectors, the 16660 is notable for its transitional characteristics, offering both vintage appeal with its matte dial variants in early production and the enhanced technical specifications of later models. It appeals to those seeking a robust tool watch with historical significance, representing a key evolutionary step in Rolex's professional dive watch development. The reference is recognized for its engineering advancements and its role in the continuous refinement of the Sea-Dweller series.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 3035
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
1220m (4000ft)
Crystal
Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Apr 2, 2015

All excellent. A slice of escape for all of us. Thank you. Nicolas

JR
jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)
Apr 2, 2015

Very inspired to try after you shared your pics and the vintage Rolex as! Thanks for sharing these pics with us Bill. I never expected PuristS divers to take wristies under the sea like this lol! Cheers Robin

BI
Bill
Apr 2, 2015

Did you see the water temperature 26 crazy. In California we dive in 17 degrees. It is clear why the Bahamas is the perfect dive destination. Next time i take the Ploprof. Bill

AM
amanico
Apr 2, 2015

But I guess you are at some depths where water is colder, no? Anyway, I am dreaming about swimming in such waters! Best, Nicolas

BI
Bill
Apr 2, 2015

Your ppro buddies are taking you all the way. I am in Cali waiting for you. I wont force a cold dive on you but i promise to take you out on the ocean. Nico i had the pleasure for a short while but we stayed top side. I on the other hand need to dive on your side. Please swing by soon. Bill

DR
dr.kol
Apr 3, 2015

You are surrounded by sea. And what kind of sea! Thailand is round the corner, same with Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines - some of the most fantastic dive sites of the world! Without diving you can\'t take wrist shots under the surface. When I\'m coming to Singapore, I need to kidnap you and take diving! Start diving my friend! Best, Kari

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