Rolex’s new yellow gold Deepsea, officially the Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller 44mm in 18ct yellow gold (reference 136660), was met with mixed reactions. Pricing aside – and let's be honest, the price is stratospheric – many questioned the practicality of a solid gold deep-diver. Honestly, I don't blame anyone for raising this question. When I picture a hyper-capable, rugged tool watch designed for extreme underwater exploration, the last material that springs to mind is gleaming, precious gold. Yet, there it is, a testament to Rolex's unwavering confidence in its engineering and a bold statement in luxury horology. This article details my experience diving with this opulent timepiece, exploring not only its performance in the depths but also the surprising nuances of wearing a $40,000+ gold watch underwater.
Rolex Oyster Diving Watch Review: A Legacy of Deep-Sea Prowess
Before delving into my personal experience, it's crucial to understand the context. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Deepsea is already a legendary diver's watch, renowned for its robustness and impressive depth rating of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). The 16000 (referencing the approximate price point, not a specific model number) gold version maintains all the technical specifications of its stainless steel counterpart. This means the same Ringlock System – a patented internal case structure that distributes pressure evenly across the crystal and case – is present, ensuring exceptional water resistance. The helium escape valve, a critical feature for saturation diving, also remains a key component.
The 18ct yellow gold case, however, introduces a new dimension. Gold, while undeniably luxurious, is significantly softer than stainless steel. This raises concerns about potential scratching and abrasion during the rigors of diving. While Rolex employs high-quality gold alloys and meticulous finishing, the reality is that any contact with rocks, coral, or even the boat's hull could leave its mark. This isn't to say the gold Deepsea is delicate; it's still incredibly durable, but the inevitable wear and tear will be more visible than on its steel sibling.
The watch's legibility underwater is exceptional. The large, luminous hands and hour markers, combined with the crisp, black dial, ensure excellent readability even in low-light conditions. The unidirectional rotating bezel, with its clearly defined graduations, remains a crucial tool for monitoring dive time. The overall design aesthetic is classic Rolex, timeless and functional. It’s a watch that commands attention, even underwater, though perhaps not for the reasons a more utilitarian diver would.
Rolex Oyster Scuba Diving: The Experience
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