The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a name synonymous with deep-sea exploration and unparalleled horological excellence, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and divers alike. Its robust build, exceptional water resistance, and iconic design have cemented its status as a legend within the watch world. This article delves into the specifics of the Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 (reference 116600) with its ceramic bezel, often found on eBay, exploring its history, features, value, and the considerations involved in purchasing a pre-owned example. We'll examine what to look for, potential pitfalls, and the overall experience of owning this remarkable timepiece.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Legacy: A Dive into History
The Sea-Dweller's story begins in the 1960s, born from a collaboration between Rolex and Comex, a French commercial diving company. Comex’s demanding needs for a robust and reliable watch capable of withstanding the extreme pressures of saturated diving led to the creation of the original Sea-Dweller, a watch designed for professional use in the harshest underwater environments. Subsequent iterations refined its design and capabilities, leading to the modern Sea-Dweller we know today.
The reference 116600, the focus of this article, represents a significant step forward in the Sea-Dweller's evolution. Introduced in 2008, this model marked the transition to a ceramic bezel insert, a significant upgrade over the aluminum bezels of previous generations. The ceramic bezel offers superior scratch resistance and fade-resistance, ensuring that the crucial timing functions remain accurate and legible even after years of use. This improvement, combined with the watch's already impressive water resistance of 4000 feet (1220 meters), solidified its position as a top-tier professional diving instrument and a highly sought-after collector's item.
The 116600: A Detailed Examination
The Rolex Sea-Dweller 116600 boasts a 40mm Oyster case, a size that strikes a perfect balance between robustness and wearability. Its unidirectional rotating bezel, with its distinctive 60-minute graduated scale, is crucial for monitoring dive times. The scratch-resistant ceramic insert ensures the accuracy of these readings remains unaffected by the rigors of daily wear or underwater adventures. The Triplock crown system, a hallmark of Rolex's commitment to water resistance, securely seals the case, guaranteeing the watch's exceptional water resistance.
The dial, typically black with luminous hour markers and hands, is easily legible in low-light conditions, a critical feature for underwater use. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is a practical addition for everyday wear. The watch is powered by the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its reliability and precision. This movement's robust construction ensures accurate timekeeping even under pressure. The Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and secure clasp, provides both comfort and durability. The Glidelock extension system allows for easy adjustment of the bracelet length, accommodating the variations in wrist size that can occur due to changes in temperature or the use of a diving suit.
current url：https://hpkzct.szhxtt.com/all/rolex-sea-dweller-4000-ceramic-bezel-40mm-1116600-ebay-51197
chanel price increase 2024 date chanel medium classic flap price