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Originally Posted by JP@AK
Hi
First, the Model 16 is a K-32 Masterpiece. Here's how it plays out.
1. In the early postwar period, S&W introduced the K-32 Masterpiece as a companion to the K-38 and K-22. At that time it had only a name - K-32 Masterpiece.
2. In the summer of 1957, S&W decided to add model numbers to the names of various revolvers. The K-32 was given the Model 16 designation, and examples began shipping in 1958. This, then, was the Model 16 K-32 Masterpiece. It had both a name and a number. The Model 16 with no dash number is extremely scarce and we assume few were made.
3. In 1961, the Model 16-2 was released. This was the first three screw Model 16 K-32 Masterpiece. Apparently there were no Model 16-1 revolvers made.
4. In 1967, the Model 16-2 was replaced by the Model 16-3. It had the same engineering change as the Model 14-3 and Model 17-3 (K-38 and K-22, respectively). The change entailed the relocation of the rear sight leaf screw, to avoid flame cutting at the screw location.
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I'll add one bit of info here. When the Model 16-3 was in production, orders were few and far between. Consequently there are quite a few 16-3 guns that were made from Model 14 frames, and have an overstamp on the model number on the frame. Mine is such a gun. So if you see one like that don't be scared off.
Traded a brand new Merwin Hulbert for a S&W Model 16-3 (sorta)
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5. In 1974, the Model 16 was discontinued. It should be noted that all the Model K-32 Masterpiece revolvers up to that time (model marked or not) were chambered for the .32 S&W Long cartridge.
6. In 1989, the Model 16 was reintroduced as the Model 16-4. However, at this time it was a slightly different animal. It had a full lug barrel, which it had never had before. And, it was chambered for the relatively new .32 H&R Magnum cartridge. Production lasted until 1993.
I hope this brief history helps you. 
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I will also comment that the Model 16-4 was available in 4", 6" and 8-3/8" barrel lengths. The earlier K-32/Model 16s were all 6". There are also a precious few (10, built in 1949) 4" revolvers in .32 S&W Long, considered as the .32 Combat Masterpiece.