The Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000, reference 116600, holds a special place in the hearts of many watch enthusiasts. Its discontinuation in 2017 marked the end of an era, solidifying its status as a sought-after collectible and a testament to Rolex's legacy of robust, reliable, and highly capable dive watches. This article delves into the specifics of this discontinued model, exploring its features, examining its current market value, and considering its potential as an investment. We'll also touch upon the broader context of the Rolex Sea-Dweller line and compare it to its successor.
Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 Review: A Deep Dive into History and Design
The Sea-Dweller 4000, with its 40mm Oyster case, represented a more compact and arguably more versatile alternative to its larger siblings. Unlike its predecessors, which featured a helium escape valve at 9 o'clock, the 116600 omitted this feature, a decision that streamlined the design while maintaining its impressive 4000-meter (13,123-foot) water resistance. This water resistance, a testament to Rolex's engineering prowess, is achieved through a combination of the robust Oyster case, Triplock winding crown, and a specially designed crystal.
The watch's aesthetic is undeniably classic Rolex. The broad, easily legible hour markers and hands, filled with Chromalight luminescence, ensure excellent visibility even in low-light conditions – crucial for professional divers. The iconic unidirectional rotating bezel, made from scratch-resistant ceramic, features a matte black finish that contrasts beautifully with the polished stainless steel case. This ceramic bezel, a significant upgrade over previous aluminum bezels, boasts exceptional durability and resistance to fading. The overall design is a masterful blend of functionality and understated elegance, making it suitable for both diving expeditions and everyday wear.
One notable aspect of the 116600 is its subtle yet impactful details. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, is cleanly integrated into the dial, and the cyclops magnifier over the date provides easy readability. The bracelet, a solid Oyster bracelet with its characteristic Oysterlock safety clasp and Glidelock extension system, ensures a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. The Glidelock system allows for precise adjustment of the bracelet length without the need for tools, a critical feature for divers whose wrists may swell during deep dives.
The movement powering the Sea-Dweller 4000 is the caliber 3135, a workhorse movement known for its reliability and precision. This self-winding mechanical movement offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Its robustness and accuracy are hallmarks of Rolex's commitment to quality and performance.
Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 Price: A Collector's Market
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