Military watches first got my interest around 2010, when I got my FAP Omega with archive certification. From then on I went crazy over them. As Comex, Compagnie Maritime d’Expertises, is one of the most iconic logos among collectors, I am incredibly attracted to this group of divers. I chanced upon this Rolex Comex Sea Dweller 16600, the last batch of Sea-Dwellers sent to Comex.

This offer came to me as a surprise because the fellow collector is not known to give up his trophies. We were discussing some other watch related topic, and I told him that I was looking for a dream Comex. Immediately he offered me this particular piece with a price that I could not refuse. I did not commit to the offer immediately but after two weeks of sleepless nights I dropped him a call and the rest is history. 

This watch is part of my daily routine and it serves me well. Being a 5 digit reference Rolex with sapphire glass, 40mm case, this actually falls into the classic neo vintage collection. My day job consists of countless meetings and sometimes manufacturing prototypes and displays for clients. One minute I will be in the sawdust filled work shop and the next I will need to wash up for a meeting. Dust and waterproofing is important to me, so I can splash water over my arms without worrying about it. This watch came to me as if it was fresh from servicing with light polishing, but now it has my DNA and surface scratches all over it.

This reference has very versatile looks. I could do almost anything with it, swimming, black tie events or even the gym. It fits nicely on an Asian wrist without any problem. Maybe a little chunky but it goes along with the current trends. Born in the tritium era, noticeable below the 6 o’clock marker you will find SWISS-T<25. There is now some creamy patina on the dial which I adore, I certainly hope that the patina will maintain throughout our journey together. 

The standard 16600 is considered an entry-level piece to the world of vintage Rolex, but not the Rolex Comex Sea Dweller due to its rarity. It also serves as a talking piece whenever I meet up with fellow watch collectors. Ever since I owned this Comex, it has been on my wrist more than any other watch in my collection because that dial is just mesmerizing!