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v7.2 (A.I. Watch & Collection Reviews)
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Model Name:
Reference:
Rolex Sea-Dweller
126600
Country
Switzerland
Current Rating
2352
Rating Implied Value ($)
$
15535
Expected Rating Based on Price
2338
Rating Alpha
14
Price ($)
$
15000
Date Added:
Sep 19, 2024
# Times Rated
3
Watch Description
Rolex created the Oyster Perpetual Sea‑Dweller in 1967 to meet the challenge of prolonged underwater missions. Subsequently improved in close partnership with Comex (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises) professionals, it is now waterproof to 1,220 metres (4,000 feet). The Sea‑Dweller is specifically designed for saturation diving. Thanks to its helium escape valve, it can withstand decompression on ascent and master the return to the surface – the final phase of deep-sea exploration.
In the 1960s, so-called “saturation” diving made it possible to remain at great depths for extended periods. It consists of housing divers in a pressurized habitat, so as to reproduce the pressure that prevails in their underwater working environment. This means that they need only undergo a single decompression process, at the very end of the mission.
This process can damage the watch. The divers breathe a mix of gases composed mainly of helium, whose extremely fine atoms can penetrate the case. On returning to the surface, the trapped helium can create a phenomenon of excess internal pressure liable to compromise the integrity of divers’ watches.
In order to overcome this problem, in 1967 Rolex introduced the Sea‑Dweller, a divers’ watch with a helium escape valve. This unique safety valve opens automatically when the internal pressure in the case is too high, allowing the helium atoms to escape.
The number of undersea missions increased from the 1960s onwards, and they took on a new format. Divers were now not only faced with longer immersion times during saturation dives, but also with diving to greater depths. The professional watches designed for them therefore needed to be able to withstand ever-increasing pressure.
Guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 610 metres (2,000 feet) when it was launched in 1967, then to 1,220 metres (4,000 feet) from 1978, the Sea‑Dweller combines all the attributes of the modern divers’ watch.
Tested in real-life conditions as part of the Tektite programme, initiated jointly by NASA, the US Navy and the US Government in 1969, the Sea‑Dweller accompanied the first major experiments with underwater habitats.
In 1971, Rolex formalized its exclusive partnership with Comex, with the Sea‑Dweller used by its divers, who hold numerous world records. The French company, which specializes in underwater engineering, technology and intervention, develops hyperbaric simulation chambers that are used to improve training for oceanographic researchers, fighter pilots and astronauts.
As an extension of this partnership, Comex works with Rolex to design and develop the hyperbaric tanks used for the waterproofness tests carried out as part of the Superlative Chronometer certification process. These tanks are used to test the watches' resistance to depths of up to 13,750 metres (45,112 feet), as is the case for the Deepsea Challenge, a divers’ watch for extreme depths.
43
50.1
15.1
1220
Steel - 904L
Round
Sapphire
Screw-in
Automatic
3235
70
Black
A.I. WatchMetrics Review:
9.2
# Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics Overall Watch Rating: 9.2/10.0 - Brand (9.5), History & Innovation (9.0), Rarity (8.5), Material (9.0), Movement (9.0), Versatility (9.0), Complications (8.0), Functions (9.0), Dials & Design (9.0), Cohesiveness (9.0) ## Summary The Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600 is a quintessential dive watch, designed for professional divers and enthusiasts alike. With its robust construction and water resistance of up to 1,220 meters, it is built to withstand extreme underwater conditions. The watch features an automatic movement, specifically the Rolex Caliber 3235, which boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Its classic design, highlighted by the iconic helium escape valve and Cyclops lens, makes it a standout piece for both casual and formal occasions. ## Metric Breakdown with Weightings - **Brand (10% Weight): 9.5/10** - Explanation: Rolex is synonymous with luxury and precision, holding a prestigious position in the watch industry, renowned for its craftsmanship and reliability. - **History & Innovation (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Sea-Dweller has a rich history as a tool watch for saturation divers, showcasing Rolex's commitment to innovation in water resistance and durability. - **Rarity (10% Weight): 8.5/10** - Explanation: While Rolex watches are widely recognized, the Sea-Dweller is less common than other models like the Submariner, adding to its exclusivity. - **Material (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: Crafted from 904L stainless steel, the Sea-Dweller is not only durable but also resistant to corrosion, enhancing its longevity. - **Movement (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3235, an in-house automatic movement known for its precision and reliability, featuring a chronometer certification. - **Versatility (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Sea-Dweller's design allows it to transition seamlessly from underwater adventures to formal settings, making it a versatile addition to any collection. - **Complications (10% Weight): 8.0/10** - Explanation: The watch features a helium escape valve, a unique complication that enhances its functionality for professional divers. - **Functions (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: - Water Resistance: Rated for depths up to 1,220 meters, suitable for professional diving. - Lume: Excellent luminescence for visibility in low-light conditions. - Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours, allowing for extended wear without winding. - **Dials & Design (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Sea-Dweller features a bold, legible dial with a classic design that remains timeless and functional. - **Cohesiveness (10% Weight): 9.0/10** - Explanation: The Sea-Dweller maintains a strong thematic coherence as a professional dive watch, embodying Rolex's ethos of durability and precision. ## Conclusion The Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600 is a remarkable timepiece that combines functionality, durability, and luxury. Its robust design and advanced movement make it an ideal choice for both professional divers and watch enthusiasts. With its rich heritage and iconic status, the Sea-Dweller stands out as a must-have in any serious watch collection. --- *A.I. WatchMetrics Review v. v6.20*