The Rolex Sea-Dweller has a long and storied history, synonymous with professional diving and unparalleled robustness. From its inception as a tool watch designed for saturation divers to its evolution into a highly sought-after luxury timepiece, the Sea-Dweller has consistently impressed. This article focuses specifically on the 2017 iteration of the Sea-Dweller 4000, a model that solidified the watch's place as a modern classic during its production run from 2014 to 2017. We'll explore its key features, examine its performance, discuss its current market value, and delve into its potential as a long-term investment.
Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 Review: A Masterpiece of Engineering and Design
The 2017 Sea-Dweller 4000, with its reference number 116600, stands out for its perfect blend of functionality and elegance. Its 40mm Oyster case, crafted from robust 904L stainless steel, is instantly recognizable. This size represents a significant departure from its predecessor, the 43mm Sea-Dweller Deepsea, making it more versatile and comfortable for everyday wear. The case, water-resistant to an impressive 1,200 meters (4,000 feet), showcases Rolex's commitment to exceptional waterproofness – a critical feature for a diving watch. This depth rating signifies its ability to withstand immense pressure, ensuring reliable performance in even the most challenging underwater environments.
The unidirectional rotating bezel, a hallmark of professional diving watches, is crucial for monitoring dive times. The ceramic insert, in matte black, is exceptionally scratch-resistant and features highly legible, raised numerals and markers filled with Chromalight luminescence. This ensures clear readability even in low-light conditions, a crucial safety feature for divers. The bezel’s precise clicks provide tactile feedback, ensuring accurate timing adjustments. The subtle yet effective knurling on the bezel provides excellent grip, even when wearing gloves.
The dial is a clean, uncluttered design, featuring a classic black matte finish that reduces glare. Large, luminescent hour markers and hands ensure excellent legibility, while the date window at 3 o'clock is seamlessly integrated into the overall aesthetic. The Chromalight luminescence, providing long-lasting illumination, enhances readability in dark environments, both above and below the water's surface.
The heart of the Sea-Dweller 4000 is the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Known for its robustness and precision, this movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. It’s certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), ensuring its accuracy and reliability. The movement's intricate details, visible through the display back (on some models), showcase Rolex's dedication to horological excellence. The movement is also equipped with Rolex's patented Parachrom hairspring, offering superior resistance to shocks and temperature variations.
The Oyster bracelet, crafted from the same 904L stainless steel as the case, complements the watch perfectly. The solid links offer exceptional comfort and durability, while the Oysterlock safety clasp prevents accidental opening. The Glidelock extension system allows for easy adjustment of the bracelet length, accommodating the wearer's needs, particularly useful over a wetsuit.
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