The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, specifically the reference 116660 with its iconic D-blue dial, stands as a testament to Rolex's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological engineering and design. This robust and visually striking timepiece, famously associated with filmmaker James Cameron, isn't just a watch; it's a statement of adventurous spirit, technical prowess, and enduring luxury. This article will delve deep into the intricacies of the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660 D-blue, exploring its history, features, specifications, market value, and the reasons behind its enduring popularity. We'll also examine the variations, including iced-out versions, and compare prices from different sources.
A Deep Dive into the Deepsea's History:
The Sea-Dweller line, a direct descendant of the Submariner, has always been synonymous with extreme water resistance. However, the Deepsea, introduced in 2008, marked a significant leap forward. Designed with input from James Cameron, a renowned explorer and director known for his deep-sea expeditions (including the record-breaking dive to the Mariana Trench), the 116660 was engineered to withstand the crushing pressures of the deepest ocean depths. This collaboration resulted in a watch capable of withstanding depths of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) – a feat unmatched by any other commercially available diving watch at the time.
The groundbreaking design incorporated several innovative features. The most striking, and arguably the most iconic, is the distinctive two-tone D-blue dial. This gradient dial, transitioning from deep blue at the outer edge to black at the center, is a visually stunning representation of the ocean's depths. This unique dial, along with the watch's robust construction, quickly established the Deepsea D-blue as a collector's item and a highly sought-after piece of horological history. The name “D-blue” itself reflects this dual-toned gradient, representing the transition from the darker depths to the lighter surface waters.
Technical Specifications and Features:
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea 116660 boasts a 44mm Oyster case, significantly larger than its Submariner counterpart, reflecting its need to accommodate the extreme pressure resistance. This substantial case houses the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its reliability and precision. The movement is COSC-certified, ensuring accuracy within specific tolerances.
Key features of the 116660 include:
* Oyster Case: A robust monobloc middle case, screwed-down case back, and Triplock winding crown provide exceptional water resistance.
* Oyster Bracelet: The watch is fitted with a robust Oyster bracelet, known for its comfort and durability. The bracelet features solid links and a Glidelock clasp, allowing for easy adjustment without the use of tools.
* Ringlock System: This innovative system, crucial for the watch's extreme depth rating, uses a nitrogen gas-filled inner case to counteract the pressure exerted on the crystal. The Ringlock system, in combination with the thick sapphire crystal, protects the movement from implosion at extreme depths.
* Chromalight Display: The hands and hour markers are filled with Chromalight luminescent material, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions.
* Helium Escape Valve: This valve allows helium gas to escape during decompression, preventing damage to the watch during saturation dives.
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