The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, reference 116660, stands as a testament to Rolex's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological engineering and diving technology. This robust and undeniably striking timepiece isn't just a watch; it's a legend forged in the crucible of extreme conditions, a symbol of resilience, and a coveted piece in the collections of serious watch enthusiasts and professional divers alike. This article will delve deep into the intricacies of the 116660, exploring its history, design, performance, and its place within the broader Rolex universe, touching upon its successor and addressing common questions surrounding its price and overall value.
Rolex Deepsea 116660 Review: A Masterpiece of Engineering
The 116660 Deepsea, released in 2008, was a significant leap forward in diver's watch technology. Its most immediately noticeable feature is its substantial 44mm case, significantly larger than its predecessors and many contemporary divers. This increase in size wasn't merely for aesthetic reasons; it was crucial to accommodate the watch's groundbreaking depth rating of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). This extreme depth rating is a testament to Rolex's mastery of materials science and engineering.
The case itself is constructed from nearly indestructible 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and scratch resistance. The iconic Triplock crown system, a hallmark of Rolex's professional diver's watches, ensures watertightness at extreme depths. This system, along with the reinforced caseback and sapphire crystal, provides unparalleled protection for the watch's internal mechanisms. The unidirectional rotating bezel, with its highly legible ceramic insert (a key improvement over earlier aluminum bezels), allows divers to accurately monitor their dive time. The luminous markers and hands, utilizing Rolex's proprietary Chromalight luminescence, ensure excellent readability even in the darkest depths.
Beyond its robust exterior, the 116660 houses the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its reliability and precision. This movement, a workhorse in the Rolex lineup, boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, a COSC-certified chronometer, and a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, resistant to magnetic fields and temperature variations. This ensures consistent accuracy and performance even under the most demanding conditions.
The dial of the 116660, often referred to as "Deep Sea Blue," is a captivating shade of deep, rich blue. While subtle, it adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the watch, reflecting the depths it's designed to withstand. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is neatly integrated into the dial, maintaining the watch's overall clean and functional design.
Rolex Deepsea 11660 Price: A Reflection of Value and Demand
The price of a pre-owned Rolex 116660 varies depending on condition, box and papers, and market fluctuations. You'll find listings ranging from approximately $7,340 upwards, but expect to pay considerably more for a watch in mint condition with all original accessories. This price reflects the watch's exceptional quality, its limited production numbers (compared to other Rolex models), and the enduring demand from collectors and enthusiasts. The 116660 is considered a highly sought-after piece, and its value tends to appreciate over time, making it a worthwhile investment for many.
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