Reference Guide
Diracpoint offers an exclusive first look at the Rolex Deepsea Challenge, a timepiece that pushes the boundaries of horological engineering. His initial impressions highlight its unique design features and extreme depth rating, inviting collectors to consider its place beyond conventional wristwear. This article synthesizes community reactions, exploring the watch's technical prowess, design philosophy, and market reception.
Got a chance to check out the new Deepsea Challenge! I was very interested in it as soon as it came out last week, because it has two main things I wanted in a Rolex diver: (1) matte black dial, (2) fully lumed no date dial like the legendary sub. The fact that it can go to the deepest point on earth is just too cool. Just think about it for a sec. From Wikipedia: βAt the bottom of the trench, the water column above exerts a pressure of 1,086 bars (15,750 psi), more than 1,071 times the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level. At this pressure, the density of water is increased by 4.96%.β The watch will survive even at this insane pressure and continue to function flawlessly!
Of course it comes at a price, both literally and figuratively β¦ price tag is quite hefty for a non-PM Rolex, and the dimensions are too big to wear on an average human wrist. But I see it as a mini submarine, which is supposed to be tied on the robotic arm of a submersible, not necessarily a standard dress or sports watch that is supposed to be worn on the wrist on a daily basis. This watch is built for a totally different purpose and is in a totally different league!
Without further ado, here are some pics β¦
No-date, Matte black dial and the Prominent Ring Lock System:
What surprised me the most is that it looks matte no matter what the viewing angle is. Dials on SD may look glossy from certain angles, but not on this one.
Chamfered lugs and Domed crystal:
Caseback engravings:
Side-by-side comparison with my friendβs regular DSSD:
On the wrist:
As you can probably sense that I love it! Hope to add it someday, hopefully soon! Thanks for reading!
The Sea-Dweller reference 116600 marked the return of the 40mm case size for the model, a dimension that had been absent from the Sea-Dweller lineup for some time. This reference reintroduced several classic Sea-Dweller design elements, distinguishing it from its larger contemporary, the Sea-Dweller 4000. It was produced for a relatively short period, making it a notable transitional model within the brand's professional tool watch offerings.
This reference features a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter and 15.3mm in thickness. It is equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel made of black ceramic with a 60-minute graduation. The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 3135, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the black dial, which includes a date complication without the cyclops lens, a characteristic feature of the Sea-Dweller line.
Appealing to collectors who appreciate traditional proportions and the technical capabilities of a professional dive watch, the 116600 is recognized for its blend of heritage design and modern materials. Its limited production run contributes to its appeal among enthusiasts seeking a Sea-Dweller with a more classic case size and specific aesthetic details, such as the matte-like black dial and the absence of the cyclops over the date.
Thank You so much I really like it but it's huge -please tell me your wrist is smaller than 7.25 inches so I can have a shot at getting one. BYW where is this since I'm located in Toronto? Thank You again.
You'd have to be Arnold or Sly to wear one of those things!
How big is your wrist if you don't mind me asking?
Mine (wearing full sleeve shirt) is 6". Top part is flat, about 50 mm wide. My friend's (wearing jacket) is wider, but not by much.
Could you please tell me which store in Toronto? BTW my wrists are also very flat and are 61mm across.
The comparison shots with the DSSD and the wrist shots really do put its size into perspective. It still looks cool though even if for most it is unwearable. All the best, Jon
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