The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, reference 116660, in its striking D-Blue dial configuration, remains a highly sought-after timepiece among collectors and professional divers alike. Its imposing 44mm case, robust build, and impressive water resistance of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) solidify its place as a legend in the world of dive watches. This article will delve into the intricacies of this iconic watch, exploring its history, features, specifications, price, and how it compares to its successor, the reference 126660. We'll also touch upon the current market value and explore the reasons behind its enduring popularity.
A Legacy of Depth: The History of the Deepsea 116660
The Rolex Sea-Dweller line has a rich history rooted in the demands of professional diving. The Deepsea, however, represents a significant leap forward in terms of depth rating and overall engineering. Born from Rolex's collaboration with the deep-sea exploration community, the 116660 was designed to withstand the extreme pressures encountered at immense depths. Its introduction marked a new benchmark for dive watch technology, showcasing Rolex's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation.
The 44mm case size, while larger than traditional dive watches, was necessary to accommodate the robust internal components required for its extreme depth rating. The distinctive D-Blue dial, a gradient that transitions from deep blue at the center to black at the outer edges, is both visually stunning and a nod to the deep ocean's mesmerizing beauty. This unique design element instantly set the 116660 apart from its predecessors and contributed significantly to its desirability.
Technical Prowess: Exploring the Features of the 116660
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660 is more than just a visually appealing watch; it's a testament to Rolex's mastery of watchmaking. Let's examine some of its key features:
* Oyster Case: The iconic Oyster case, synonymous with Rolex, provides exceptional protection against water, dust, and shocks. The Triplock winding crown ensures a triple seal, contributing to the watch's remarkable water resistance.
* Ringlock System: This innovative system, unique to the Deepsea, uses a ring of nitrogen gas inside the case to counteract the pressure at extreme depths, protecting the movement from damage. This is a crucial element that allows the watch to withstand pressures far beyond those of other dive watches.
* Caliber 3135: The 116660 is powered by the self-winding caliber 3135 movement, a highly reliable and robust mechanism known for its accuracy and longevity. This movement is a workhorse, providing a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
* Chromalight Display: The luminous hour markers and hands are coated with Chromalight, Rolex's proprietary luminescent material, ensuring excellent readability in low-light conditions. The intense blue glow provides exceptional visibility even in the darkest depths.
* Oyster Bracelet: The robust Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and secure clasp, provides comfort and security even during rigorous activities. The Glidelock extension system allows for easy adjustment of the bracelet length, accommodating different suit thicknesses.
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