The Rolex Submariner 16600, a legendary dive watch in its own right, takes on a unique and fascinating narrative when considering the specific examples supplied to the Italian State Police (Polizia di Stato). These watches, often referred to as "Polizia di Stato" Submariners, represent a captivating intersection of horological history and the demanding world of underwater law enforcement. While precise numbers remain elusive, the limited distribution of these specific watches has cemented their status as highly sought-after collector's items, commanding significant premiums in the secondary market. This article delves into the history, specifications, and allure of the Rolex 16600 Polizia di Stato, uncovering the story behind these exceptional timepieces.
The Genesis of a Partnership: Unveiling the CNES and the Need for Specialized Equipment
To fully appreciate the significance of the Rolex 16600 Polizia di Stato, understanding the context of its acquisition is crucial. As highlighted by Stefano Mazzariol on WatchProSite, a comprehensive understanding requires consulting the book "The State Police Divers." This crucial resource sheds light on the operational needs of the CNES (Centro Nazionale sommozzatori – National Underwater and Nautical Center), the specialized unit within the Italian Polizia di Stato responsible for underwater operations. In July 2008, agents within the CNES initiated a procurement process to equip their divers with reliable, high-performance timepieces capable of withstanding the rigors of their demanding profession.
The CNES's operational requirements were stringent. Their divers face diverse challenges, from recovering evidence in submerged environments to conducting underwater searches and rescues. A watch used in such conditions needed exceptional water resistance, robust construction, and unwavering accuracy – qualities synonymous with Rolex Submariners. The choice of the Rolex 16600 wasn't arbitrary; it represented a culmination of years of Rolex's dedication to crafting dependable, high-precision dive watches. The 16600, with its sapphire crystal, Triplock crown, and helium escape valve, offered the necessary features to guarantee reliable performance under pressure, both literally and figuratively.
The Rolex 16600: A Proven Dive Watch Platform
Before discussing the specific Polizia di Stato examples, it's essential to understand the capabilities of the Rolex Submariner 16600 itself. Produced from 1988 to 2000, the 16600 represented a significant evolution in the Submariner line. Its notable features included:
* Sapphire Crystal: Replacing the acrylic crystal of previous models, the sapphire crystal offered superior scratch resistance, ensuring legibility even after prolonged exposure to harsh underwater environments.
* Triplock Crown: This three-part crown system provided enhanced water resistance, protecting the movement from water ingress.
* Helium Escape Valve: Crucial for saturation diving, this valve allowed the escape of helium gas accumulated during deep dives, preventing potential damage to the watch crystal.
* Calibre 3000 Movement: A robust and reliable automatic movement, the Calibre 3000 provided accurate timekeeping under pressure.
* Oyster Case: The iconic Oyster case, renowned for its water resistance and durability, ensured the watch could withstand the demanding conditions faced by the Polizia di Stato divers.
These features, combined with Rolex's rigorous testing and quality control processes, made the 16600 an ideal choice for the demanding requirements of underwater law enforcement.
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