Greetings fellow horology enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, then you’re probably interested in the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller, one of the most iconic dive watches in history. Rolex has been producing this masterpiece since 1967, and it has been a favorite among divers, collectors, and watch aficionados ever since. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the features, advantages, and disadvantages of this legendary timepiece. Let’s explore what makes the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller a timeless classic.
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller: A Brief Introduction
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a diver’s watch known for its robustness, reliability, and precision. It was introduced as an extension of the legendary Rolex Submariner line and specifically designed for professional divers. The Sea Dweller boasts of impressive technical features, including its water resistance, helium escape valve, and unidirectional bezel, making it ideal for deep-sea dives. Rolex designed the Sea Dweller in collaboration with the French deep-sea diving company, COMEX, to meet the demanding requirements of professional divers.
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a watch for those who seek adventure and appreciate fine craftsmanship. While it may not be the cheapest watch on the market, it is certainly worth the investment, as it is built to last a lifetime.
History of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has a fascinating history that dates back to the late 1960s. The first Sea Dweller model was the ref. 1665, introduced in 1967. The ref. 1665 was water-resistant up to 610 meters and featured a patented helium escape valve that allowed trapped gas to exit the watch during decompression. Rolex designed this valve to address the issue of divers using the watch in saturation diving.
The ref. 1665 was succeeded by the ref. 16660 in 1978, which boasted of a significantly improved water resistance depth of 1220 meters. The newer model also featured a sapphire crystal and a larger helium escape valve. In 1988, Rolex introduced the ref. 16600, which had the same water resistance depth as the ref. 16660. However, it had a solid steel bezel and improved luminescence on the dial.
The current iteration of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is the ref. 126600, which was introduced in 2017. The ref. 126600 features a 43mm case, a ceramic bezel, and a water resistance depth of 1220 meters. It also has a laser-etched logo on the crystal and a Chromalight display for improved visibility in low light conditions.
Design and Features of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a watch that boasts of impressive technical features and a timeless design. The watch has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 43mm, making it a larger and more substantial timepiece than the Submariner. The watch has a black dial with white gold hour markers and hands that are coated with Rolex’s proprietary Chromalight luminescence. The watch also has a date window at the 3 o’clock position, and the Cyclops lens magnifies the date by 2.5 times.
The unidirectional bezel on the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is made of ceramic and features a 60-minute scale. The bezel has numerals and graduations coated in platinum for improved legibility in low light conditions. The watch also has a helium escape valve at the 9 o’clock position that allows trapped gas to escape during decompression. The valve also prevents the crystal from popping out due to pressure changes during deep-sea dives.
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has an Oyster bracelet with a Glidelock clasp that allows for quick adjustments to the bracelet’s length. The watch is also equipped with Rolex’s Calibre 3235 self-winding movement, which has a power reserve of 70 hours.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller
The Advantages of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller
| Advantages | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Water Resistance | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is water-resistant up to 1220 meters. This makes it ideal for deep-sea divers and those who love water sports. |
| Reliability | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is built to last a lifetime. It is robust, reliable, and has a reputation for being a tough watch that can withstand extreme conditions. |
| Design | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has a timeless design that is instantly recognizable. It is a watch that looks good on anyone and can be worn for any occasion. |
| Technical Features | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has technical features that make it ideal for professional divers. These features include the helium escape valve, unidirectional bezel, and Chromalight luminescence. |
| Brand Value | Rolex is one of the most recognized and respected brands in the watch industry. Owning a Rolex watch is a status symbol and a sign of success. |
The Disadvantages of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller
| Disadvantages | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Price | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is an expensive watch. It may not be affordable for everyone, especially those on a budget. |
| Size | The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a larger watch than the Submariner. It may not be suitable for those with smaller wrists or those who prefer smaller watches. |
| Design | While the design of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is timeless, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some may find it too bulky or too sporty for their tastes. |
| Service Costs | Servicing a Rolex watch can be expensive. It is recommended to have the watch serviced every 5-10 years to ensure its longevity and performance. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller cost?
The current retail price of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller ref. 126600 is $11,450.
2. What is the water resistance depth of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has a water resistance depth of 1220 meters or 4000 feet.
3. What is the diameter of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has a diameter of 43mm.
4. What is the movement of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is equipped with Rolex’s Calibre 3235 self-winding movement.
5. What is the power reserve of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The power reserve of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is 70 hours.
6. Does the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller have a date window?
Yes, the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller has a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
7. Is the bezel of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller bi-directional or uni-directional?
The bezel of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is uni-directional.
8. What is the material used for the bezel of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The bezel of the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is made of ceramic.
9. What is the purpose of the helium escape valve on the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The helium escape valve on the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller allows trapped gas to escape during decompression. It also prevents the crystal from popping out due to pressure changes during deep-sea dives.
10. Is the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a versatile watch that can be worn for any occasion. However, it may not be suitable for those with smaller wrists or those who prefer smaller watches.
11. Does the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller come with any additional features?
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller comes with a Glidelock clasp that allows for quick adjustments to the bracelet’s length.
12. What is the warranty period for the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The warranty period for the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is 5 years.
13. Where can I buy the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller?
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller can be purchased at authorized Rolex dealers or on Rolex’s official website.
Conclusion
The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a watch that needs no introduction. It has stood the test of time and remains an iconic timepiece that is synonymous with adventure and exploration. Owning a Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is not just about having a reliable and precise timepiece, but it’s also about owning a piece of history. If you’re in the market for a dive watch, then the Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller should be at the top of your list.
Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you found it informative and helpful. Now go out there and explore the world with your Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller!
Closing/Disclaimer
Note that the information contained in this article is for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information presented. The Rolex Submariner Sea Dweller is a luxury watch that requires proper care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. It is recommended to have the watch serviced by a certified Rolex technician every 5-10 years.
This article is not affiliated with or sponsored by Rolex S.A. or any of its subsidiaries. Rolex is a trademark of Rolex S.A.