The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a legend in the world of professional diving watches, has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological engineering and underwater exploration. Its latest iteration, the Sea-Dweller Deepsea (specifically the reference 126660), represents the pinnacle of this legacy, boasting exceptional durability, impressive technology, and a timeless design. This review will delve deep into the 126660, comparing it to its predecessors and exploring its position within the broader Rolex ecosystem, including its investment potential.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 126660: A Comprehensive Overview
The Sea-Dweller Deepsea 126660 is not just a watch; it's a statement. Its imposing 44mm Oyster case, crafted from virtually indestructible 904L stainless steel, is immediately striking. This substantial size isn't merely for show; it's necessary to house the complex movement and withstand the immense pressures of the deep. The unidirectional rotatable bezel, crucial for safe decompression dives, features a ceramic Cerachrom insert, virtually scratch-proof and resistant to the fading effects of UV light. This ensures the bezel remains accurate and legible even after years of rigorous use.
The watch's heart is the calibre 3235, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement boasts a remarkable power reserve of approximately 70 hours, significantly longer than its predecessors, allowing for greater convenience and reliability. The 3235 incorporates Rolex's patented Chronergy escapement, known for its efficiency and resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. This, combined with the Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, ensures exceptional timekeeping precision even under extreme conditions.
The dial, a classic Rolex design, features large, luminous hour markers and hands, ensuring excellent readability in low-light conditions. The iconic Cyclops magnifying lens over the date window is a hallmark of the Sea-Dweller line, enhancing legibility. The bracelet is the robust Oyster bracelet, known for its comfort and durability, complete with the patented Glidelock clasp system allowing for precise adjustment without tools. This is particularly useful for divers needing to adjust the fit of their watch over a diving suit.
Rolex Deepsea 116660 vs 126660: A Generation Gap
The 126660 is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the 116660. While both watches share a similar design philosophy and impressive water resistance (both rated to an incredible 3,900 meters/12,800 feet), the differences are notable. The most significant change is the movement. The 116660 utilized the calibre 3135, a robust and reliable movement, but the 3235 in the 126660 offers a substantial improvement in power reserve and efficiency. The 126660 also features the updated Cerachrom bezel insert, offering superior scratch and fade resistance compared to the aluminum insert of the 116660.
Aesthetically, the differences are subtle. The 126660 boasts a slightly redesigned case and bracelet, resulting in a more refined and comfortable feel on the wrist. While the 116660 remains a capable and desirable watch, the 126660 represents a clear advancement in technology and refinement.
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