Amanico provides rare insights into an extraordinary Rolex Sea-Dweller 16660 Hydra V, a Comex mission watch with unique historical provenance. This post details its participation in record-setting saturation dives, special case back engravings, and its connection to the French Marine Nationale, making it one of the rarest Comex pieces in existence.
If we can consider the Rolex Sea Dweller 16660 Comex as a special watch, this one adds something extraordinary special...
Here are the informations given to me by the owner of this watch:
The 16660 Comex was made from 1981 to 1985 (200 issued).
* This model, the first with a sapphire glass, has been produced in 2 batches of dial, matte then glossy and are seen by the collector as the latest improvement into diving tool: twice the depth rating as a sea dweller 1665 (1220 meters) and an improved design for the helium escape valve.
* This particular watch is a Mission Watch who participates in 2 Saturation dives (hydra 5 and Hydra 8). From the first one, it has special case back engraving, mentioning the mission name as well as the diver name, making it a unique piece but it has been also used by the same diver, during Hydra 8 where it gets the record for the deepest open water saturation diver at 534 meters, achieved during in March 1988. One of the rarest Comex in the world
* It is important to notice that 2 divers of this hydra mission were from the French Marine National (2 comex, 2 MN and 2 INPP). This is one of those two. This watch bare 2 service engraving by “Yves Pastre” (official service shop of the MN in Toulon) inside the case-back … one the the few “Comex-Military”
* Last detail, this watch was born with a matte dial, but before the Hydra 5 mission, like all the watches which were tested during the 36 days of the experiment, Rolex "upgraded" the watch with the latest improvement, in this case a glossy dial… So this historic piece has 2 dials. To be also noticed that only the Hydra 5 watches engraving have been done by Rolex Geneva (all other missions engravings were done within Comex workshop)
For your eyes only...
Best,
Nicolas
About the Rolex Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 1680
The Rolex Submariner reference 1680 is notable as the first Submariner model to feature a date complication, marking a significant evolution for the line. Introduced in the late 1960s, it bridged the gap between the earlier no-date Submariners and later iterations, offering enhanced functionality while retaining the robust characteristics of the professional tool watch. This reference is distinguished by its single cyclops date magnifier on the crystal, a feature that would become a hallmark of many subsequent Rolex models.
This reference typically features a 40mm steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber 1575 movement. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The crystal is acrylic, commonly referred to as Plexiglas, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. Water resistance for the 1680 is rated at 200 meters, consistent with its design as a reliable underwater instrument.
For collectors, the reference 1680 is highly sought after, particularly early examples with "Red Submariner" dials where the word "Submariner" is printed in red. These variants represent a distinct period in Rolex's production history and are prized for their rarity and aesthetic appeal. The 1680 appeals to those who appreciate the blend of historical significance, functional design, and the tangible qualities of vintage Rolex manufacturing.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal.1575
- Case
- steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Acrylic (Plexiglas)
About the Rolex Ref. 5514
The Rolex Submariner reference 5514 is a specialized variant of the Submariner line, produced exclusively for COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), a French industrial deep-sea diving company. This reference is distinguished by its unique helium escape valve, integrated into the left side of the case, a feature not found on standard Submariner models of its era. It represents a purpose-built tool watch designed for professional saturation divers, setting it apart from other Submariner references intended for broader commercial release. Its limited production and specific client make it a notable piece within the brand's history of professional watches.
The case of the reference 5514 is crafted from stainless steel, typically measuring 40mm in diameter. It houses an automatic movement, likely the Rolex Caliber 1520 or 1530, known for its robustness and reliability. The watch is fitted with a Plexiglas crystal, consistent with Rolex sports models from the mid-20th century, providing durability and ease of maintenance in demanding environments. The helium escape valve is a key technical modification, allowing accumulated helium to escape during decompression without damaging the watch crystal.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in specialized Rolex tool watches and those with a focus on professional diving equipment. Its association with COMEX and the presence of the helium escape valve make it a distinct and highly sought-after model. Variants often include dials with the COMEX logo, further emphasizing its unique provenance. The 5514 occupies a specific niche, representing a period when Rolex collaborated directly with professional organizations to develop watches tailored for extreme conditions.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 1520/1530
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200m
- Crystal
- Plexiglass
About the Rolex Date Ref. 16610
The Rolex Submariner reference 16610 is a robust and functional diver's watch, representing a key evolution within the Submariner lineage. It succeeded the reference 168000 and introduced incremental updates while maintaining the core design principles of the professional tool watch. This reference is distinguished by its use of 904L stainless steel and a sapphire crystal, enhancing its durability and water resistance for demanding use. It remained a cornerstone of the brand's sports watch offerings for many years.
This reference features a 40mm case crafted from 904L stainless steel, housing the automatic Caliber 3135 movement. This self-winding mechanical movement is known for its reliability and precision, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet), secured by a Triplock winding crown. The unidirectional rotating bezel is equipped with an aluminum insert.
The 16610 appeals to collectors seeking a modern classic Submariner that bridges the gap between vintage and contemporary iterations. It represents the last generation of Submariners with an aluminum bezel insert before the introduction of ceramic bezels. Variants primarily involve minor dial changes over its production run, such as lug hole cases versus no lug hole cases, and the transition from tritium to Luminova luminescence. Its long production period makes it a widely recognized and accessible reference.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 3135
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal