The statement "Rolex Sea-Dweller wird nicht mehr hergestellt" (Rolex Sea-Dweller is no longer manufactured) is categorically false. The Rolex Sea-Dweller remains a highly sought-after and actively produced model within the Rolex Professional line. The rumour, likely originating from discussions within collector circles or misunderstandings about specific discontinued references, has persisted, leading to confusion and potentially inflated prices for certain vintage models. This article aims to clarify the situation, delve into the rich history of the Sea-Dweller, and explore its current iterations and future prospects.
While it's true that specific *references* of the Sea-Dweller have been discontinued, the model itself continues to thrive. To understand this, we need to explore the Sea-Dweller’s lineage and its evolution within the Rolex catalog. The confusion often stems from the fact that Rolex regularly updates its models, introducing subtle or significant changes in design, materials, and movements. These updates often lead to the discontinuation of previous references, leaving collectors to hunt for specific, older versions. However, this is a normal part of the Rolex production cycle, not an indication that the entire model line has been axed.
The Sea-Dweller's history is intrinsically linked to its deep-sea diving heritage. Born from the need for a robust and reliable timepiece capable of withstanding the extreme pressures of professional saturation diving, the Sea-Dweller has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological engineering. Its development was closely tied to the pioneering work of Comex, the French commercial diving company, and the specific needs of their divers. This collaboration resulted in some of the most iconic and sought-after Sea-Dweller models, many of which are now highly prized collector's items.
Early Sea-Dwellers, such as the reference 1665, often referred to as the "Double Red" due to its red text on the dial, are legendary amongst collectors. The vibrant red lettering, indicating its water resistance of 600 feet (200 meters), is a hallmark of this particular reference. Later iterations, such as the reference 16660, introduced subtle but significant changes, including the transition to a single red line above the "Sea-Dweller" text. These subtle distinctions contribute to the complex and fascinating tapestry of Sea-Dweller history, further fueling the collecting passion.
The introduction of the helium escape valve, a crucial feature allowing the escape of helium gas accumulated during saturation dives, further cemented the Sea-Dweller's reputation as a professional diving instrument. This valve, visible on the side of the case, is a defining characteristic of the modern Sea-Dweller. Without this valve, the pressure differential during decompression could severely damage the watch. This innovation underscores Rolex's commitment to functionality and performance, a commitment that continues to define the brand.
current url：https://mwvxoa.ec581.com/news/rolex-sea-dweller-wird-nicht-mehr-hergestellt-65461