rolex deepsea misure | Rolex deepsea for sale uk

The Rolex Deepsea. The name itself evokes images of immense pressure, unfathomable depths, and a relentless pursuit of exploration. While the contemporary Deepsea is a marvel of modern engineering, its roots are firmly planted in a history of daring feats and groundbreaking achievements. This article will delve into the "misure" – the measurements, both literal and figurative – of the Rolex Deepsea, exploring its historical significance, technical specifications, and the broader context of its place in the world of luxury timepieces. We will also touch upon key considerations such as price, comparisons with other Rolex models, and the availability of both new and pre-owned Deepseas.

A Historic Record: The Marianas Trench Descent of 1960rolex deepsea misure

The genesis of the modern Rolex Deepsea lies in a remarkable event: the 1960 descent of the bathyscaphe *Trieste* to the bottom of the Challenger Deep, the deepest known point in the Earth's oceans, located in the Mariana Trench. US Navy Lieutenant Don Walsh and the legendary oceanographer Jacques Piccard piloted the *Trieste* to a staggering depth of approximately 10,916 meters (35,814 feet). Affixed to the exterior of the *Trieste* was a specially designed Rolex Deep Sea Special, a watch engineered to withstand the crushing pressure of the deepest ocean environment.

This was not simply a marketing stunt. Rolex, under the leadership of René-Paul Jeanneret, was genuinely committed to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology. The Deep Sea Special was a purely experimental piece, a testbed for innovative solutions that would later inform the development of future Rolex models. Its success in surviving the Mariana Trench descent cemented Rolex's reputation as a manufacturer of exceptionally robust and reliable timepieces, capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

The Deep Sea Special was a behemoth, characterized by its massive dome-shaped crystal and robust case construction. It was a prototype, not intended for mass production, but its legacy is undeniable. It demonstrated Rolex's commitment to innovation and its understanding of the challenges posed by deep-sea exploration. This pioneering spirit continues to be embodied in the modern Rolex Deepsea.

The Modern Rolex Deepsea: A Symphony of Engineering

The current Rolex Deepsea (Reference 126660 and variations) is a direct descendant of that groundbreaking Deep Sea Special. While not as gargantuan as its predecessor, it's still a substantial watch, designed to withstand the immense pressures encountered at depths far beyond the reach of recreational divers.

Here’s a breakdown of the key “misure” that define the modern Rolex Deepsea:

* Diameter: 44mm. This provides excellent legibility and a commanding presence on the wrist.

* Thickness: 17.7mm. Necessary to accommodate the robust construction required for extreme depths.

* Water Resistance: 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). This is far beyond the reach of any recreational diver and ensures exceptional protection against water ingress.

* Caliber: Rolex Caliber 3235. A self-winding mechanical movement manufactured entirely in-house. It features the Chronergy escapement, offering greater efficiency and reliability, and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.

* Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal. Exceptionally thick and resistant to pressure.

* Ringlock System: A patented Rolex innovation that ensures the structural integrity of the watch case at extreme depths. This system comprises three key elements:

* Central Ring: Made of high-performance nitrogen-alloyed steel.

* Sapphire Crystal: 5.5mm thick.

* Grade 5 Titanium Caseback: Provides optimal resistance to deformation.

* Oystersteel Case and Bracelet: Rolex's proprietary stainless steel alloy, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability.

* Glidelock Extension System: Allows for fine adjustments to the bracelet length, ensuring a comfortable fit over a wetsuit.

* Fliplock Extension Link: Provides an additional 26mm of bracelet length for wearing over thicker dive suits.

* Cerachrom Bezel Insert: Made of highly scratch-resistant ceramic, ensuring long-lasting legibility and aesthetics. The bezel is unidirectional, preventing accidental adjustments during a dive.

* Luminescence: Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence for optimal visibility in dark conditions.

These “misure” are not arbitrary numbers. They represent a carefully considered balance of form and function, designed to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability in the most demanding environments.

Rolex Deepsea vs. Sea-Dweller: A Tale of Two Divers

While both the Rolex Deepsea and the Sea-Dweller are high-performance dive watches, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Understanding the key differences between them is crucial when considering which model is right for you.