The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a legendary dive watch synonymous with robustness and precision, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017. This milestone resulted in the release of the reference 126600, a watch that immediately captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its unique features, enhanced performance, and historical significance have cemented its place as a highly sought-after collectible, driving its price to impressive heights. This article delves into the Rolex Sea-Dweller 50th Anniversary (reference 126600), exploring its design, specifications, history, and, crucially, its current market price, explaining why a listing of $14,547 for a 2020 model in very good condition represents a potentially strong value proposition, yet also requires careful consideration.
A Legacy of Depth: The Sea-Dweller's History
Before examining the specifics of the 50th-anniversary model, it's crucial to understand the Sea-Dweller's heritage. Born from the need for a robust timepiece capable of withstanding the extreme pressures of deep-sea diving, the Sea-Dweller emerged as a more specialized evolution of the Submariner. Its initial iterations, dating back to the 1960s, featured helium escape valves, a crucial component for professional divers working in saturation diving environments. These valves allowed helium gas, used in diving saturation chambers, to escape the watch case during decompression, preventing damage to the crystal.
Over the decades, the Sea-Dweller has undergone various refinements, consistently pushing the boundaries of diving watch technology. Each iteration built upon its predecessor, improving water resistance, adding new features, and enhancing its overall durability. The watch evolved from its early incarnations with simpler aesthetics to the more sophisticated and refined designs we see today. This continuous improvement and the watch's association with professional diving created a strong foundation for the 50th-anniversary model's success.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller 50th Anniversary (Ref. 126600): A Detailed Examination
The reference 126600, released to commemorate the Sea-Dweller's 50th anniversary, represents a significant upgrade in both functionality and aesthetics. Building on the legacy of its predecessors, this model incorporated several noteworthy features:
* Increased Water Resistance: While previous Sea-Dwellers boasted impressive water resistance, the 126600 pushed the limits further, achieving a remarkable water resistance of 1,220 meters (4,000 feet). This significant increase in depth rating solidifies its position as a true professional diving instrument.
* Calibre 3235 Movement: The heart of the 126600 beats with the advanced Calibre 3235 movement, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its precision, reliability, and power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This improved movement enhances the watch's accuracy and reduces the frequency of winding.
* Chromalight Display: The 126600 features Rolex's signature Chromalight display, providing superior legibility in low-light conditions. The luminous hour markers and hands emit a long-lasting, intense blue glow, ensuring readability even in the darkest depths.
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