The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a watch synonymous with deep-sea exploration and unparalleled resilience, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020 with the release of the reference 126600. This special edition, however, sparked considerable discussion, not just for its commemorative significance, but also for a noticeable change: its increased thickness. This article will delve into a complete review of the Rolex Sea-Dweller 126600 50th anniversary edition, focusing on its thickness within the context of its history, its features, and its place within the broader Rolex Sea-Dweller lineage. We'll also explore the wider market, including a look at the Rolex Sea-Dweller price guide, examining current prices and retail values across various references and models.
The Thickness Debate: A Matter of Millimeters and Modernity
One of the most debated aspects of the 126600 is its thickness compared to its predecessors. While Rolex hasn't officially publicized the exact dimensions, independent measurements generally place the 50th-anniversary model at approximately 15.2mm thick, notably thicker than the previous generation Sea-Dweller (reference 116600) which measured around 12.5mm. This increase, while seemingly small, is noticeable on the wrist and has been a point of contention for some enthusiasts.
The added thickness, however, is not simply a design flaw. It's directly related to the significant improvements implemented in the 126600. The incorporation of Rolex's groundbreaking Calibre 3235 movement, known for its superior accuracy, power reserve, and anti-magnetic properties, accounts for a significant portion of the increased bulk. Furthermore, the improved water resistance, a key feature of any professional diving watch, also contributes to the thicker case.
Conquering the Depths: Functionality and Features of the 126600
In its marketing literature, Rolex likes to refer to the Sea-Dweller as "the watch that conquered the depths," a fitting description given its history and capabilities. The 126600, as a fitting anniversary edition, further solidifies this reputation. Its increased water resistance, rated to an impressive 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), surpasses even its predecessor. This enhanced depth rating isn't just a marketing ploy; it's a testament to Rolex's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology.
The 126600 boasts several other notable features:
* Calibre 3235: This in-house movement represents the pinnacle of Rolex's mechanical watchmaking. Its superior accuracy, longer power reserve (approximately 70 hours), and enhanced resistance to magnetic fields are significant advancements over previous movements used in the Sea-Dweller line.
* Chromalight Display: The iconic luminescent hour markers and hands, enhanced with Chromalight, provide exceptional readability even in the darkest depths. The long-lasting luminescence is a crucial safety feature for divers.
* Oystersteel Case: Crafted from Rolex's proprietary Oystersteel, the case provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, vital for withstanding the harsh marine environment.
current url：https://ddafpn.sh-pukun.com/all/rolex-sea-dweller-50th-anniversary-thickness-17430