The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller, specifically the reference 116610, holds a revered position within the pantheon of professional dive watches. While the prompt mentions the 116660, a later model with a different case size and helium escape valve, this article focuses on the 116610, a watch renowned for its robust build, exceptional water resistance, and enduring legacy. Launched as a significant evolution of the original Sea-Dweller, the 116610 represents a pinnacle of Rolex's dedication to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration and horological engineering.
Rolex created the original Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller in 1967, answering the specific needs of professional saturation divers. These divers, often working on extended underwater missions, required a timepiece capable of withstanding immense pressure and providing reliable timekeeping in challenging environments. The collaboration with Comex (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), a leading French underwater engineering company, was instrumental in the Sea-Dweller's development. Comex's rigorous testing and feedback directly influenced the watch's design and functionality, ensuring its suitability for the extreme demands of professional diving. This partnership underscored Rolex's commitment to creating tools that met the needs of real-world professionals, rather than simply producing aesthetically pleasing luxury items.
The 116610 Sea-Dweller, introduced later, built upon this rich heritage, incorporating numerous improvements and refinements. It retained the core design elements that defined the Sea-Dweller's identity – a robust Oyster case, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and exceptional water resistance – while adding contemporary features and enhancements. The 116610 boasts a water resistance rating of 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), a testament to its ability to withstand the crushing pressures of the deep ocean. This significant depth rating, while not as extreme as the Deepsea models, still positions it firmly within the realm of professional dive watches, suitable for serious underwater exploration.
The 116610: A Detailed Examination
The 116610's 40mm Oyster case, crafted from highly corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel, is instantly recognizable. Its robust construction provides exceptional protection for the movement within, safeguarding it from impacts and pressure changes. The iconic unidirectional rotating bezel, with its clearly marked 60-minute graduated scale, allows divers to accurately monitor their dive time, a critical safety feature. The bezel's precise ratcheting action prevents accidental adjustments, ensuring the accuracy of the dive time measurement. The sapphire crystal, virtually scratch-proof, further enhances the watch's durability and legibility.
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