Rolex Tudor VI 66 Case Back Mystery
Vintage

Rolex Tudor VI 66 Case Back Mystery

By amanico · May 8, 2013 · 48 replies
amanico
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amanico delves into the intriguing mystery of Rolex and Tudor case backs marked 'VI 66', found on vintage Submariners and Explorer 1016s. This post explores whether these markings are typos, a unique dating system, or something more enigmatic, inviting the community to unravel a fascinating piece of horological history.

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VI 66 Rolex Case Backs

Evil's watch, Number of the Beast, Bad Typo, existing watches?

One thing is certain: These case backs existed, as some can be found on Vintage Submariners ( Tudor AND Rolex ) as well as on the Explorer 1 of the moment, the 1016.

The 1016: ( Picture to be credited to Jacek ). Three observed pieces in the 1 499 xxx / 1 504 xxx range.



The Rolex Submariner ( 5513 and 5512 ) with serial numbers from 1 499 xxx to 1 551 xxx ( which cannot be seen as a start and an end, but which means that we are somewhere in this batch ).





Tudor 7928:



( Credit pictures of the 5513 and 7928: Jatucka ).

I am not sure this special feautre existed on other Rolex / Tudor watches, at least I didn't find any evidence of that.

The question remains unanswered, though:

Is VI 66 a bad typo, an axception to the datation system at Rolex ( month of the year instead of 1st to Fourth Quarter of the year ) or intervention of the Beast?

wink

Best,

Nicolas

About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016

The reference 1016 is a notable iteration of the Explorer model, recognized for its robust design and clear legibility. It represents a period of consistent design language for the Explorer line, maintaining core aesthetic principles while incorporating incremental technical refinements. This reference is particularly distinguished by its long production run, allowing for various dial and case nuances across its manufacturing years.

This reference features a 36 mm stainless steel Oyster case, providing a durable and functional enclosure for the automatic caliber 1570 movement. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 42-48 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage appeal and period-correct specifications. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters, underscoring its design for practical use.

For collectors, the reference 1016 holds interest due to its enduring design and the variations found within its production. Different dial types, such as gilt and matte, are observed, each appealing to specific collecting preferences. Its straightforward time-only display and tool-watch aesthetic make it a representative example of the Explorer series' foundational principles.

Specifications

Caliber
1570
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
36 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AN
Andy
May 8, 2013
Interesting observation....

I've never taken a Rolex back off so will never know what is inside :) Big congrats on 66666...!!! Yours my friend, Andy.

AM
amanico
May 8, 2013
If you want to see a date in your case back, you should go for a Rolex

Made till 1972. After this year, Rolex didn't mention the year and the quartal anymore... Best, my friend. Nicolas

BL
blomman Mr Blue
May 8, 2013
Huge congrats on your 66 666 post, Nicolas!

What an achievement! :) And a very appropriate topic as your 66 666 post! As a newbie I have no input to the subject - but it sparks my curiosity of this brand even more. Looking forward to read your next 66 666 posts - and two of them I hope to be about some new info on the DSA and Geophysic! ;) All the best, my dear friend Blomman

EP
Epilogue
May 8, 2013
Great montage Blomman!

BI
Bill
May 8, 2013
Tooo funny blomman

I will need to make a site wide sticky for your image. Best Bill

AM
amanico
May 8, 2013
Not worth it, Bill... Bill, please, pretty please, don't do that. :)))

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