The Rolex Sea-Dweller occupies an cutting-edge solution to a unique problem discovered by COMEX divers back in the 1960’s – helium pressure build up inside the watch case during decompression. Deep sea divers use a helium/oxygen mix in their air tanks whilst diving, and helium is also mixed into the air that divers breath during decompression. Helium can permeate a watch crystal, and can build up pressure during decompression – early deep sea divers literally experience the crystal being blown right out of their watches as a result. Rolex solved this problem by integrating a helium escape valve into the Sea-Dweller case which will automatically release when pressure builds to a critical point. To accommodate the integrated valve, as well as the added reinforcement needed to enhance the Sea-Dweller depth rating, the case size of the Sea-Dweller is roughly 4mm thicker than that of the Submariner. The added thickness causes the Sea-Dweller to sit slightly higher on the wrist than other Rolex sports models.
This 16600 Sea-Dweller model features a black dial with luminous dots and batons as well as date indicator at the 3 o’clock position. The watch comes with a non-branded presentation box and Parkers 12 month warranty.
N420