Collection
HERMINATOR's post invites the WatchProSite community to engage in a classic collector's dilemma: optimizing a high-end watch collection. By presenting three distinct Patek Philippe-centric assortments, the author sparks a lively debate on ideal daily wearers, grail pieces, and the strategic reduction of a collection to its most cherished components. This discussion highlights the diverse philosophies behind curating a luxury watch portfolio.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 126600, introduced in 2017, marked a significant update to the Sea-Dweller line, commemorating the model's 50th anniversary. This reference is notable for its increased case size and the reintroduction of the single red line of text on the dial, a nod to early Sea-Dweller models. It bridges the gap between the traditional Sea-Dweller and the larger Deepsea models, offering enhanced presence on the wrist while maintaining the core design language of the professional dive watch series.
This model features a 43 mm Oystersteel case, equipped with a helium escape valve, and is fitted with a unidirectional rotating bezel with a black Cerachrom insert. The watch is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3235, an automatic movement known for its precision and a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the black dial, which includes a date complication at 3 o'clock, a departure from previous Sea-Dweller models that lacked the Cyclops lens.
The 126600 appeals to collectors seeking a modern Sea-Dweller with historical design cues. Its larger size and the distinctive red text differentiate it within the contemporary Rolex sports watch lineup. While it maintains the robust engineering expected of the Sea-Dweller, its specific aesthetic details and technical upgrades make it a distinct offering for those interested in the evolution of Rolex's professional dive watches.
To be honest, I would choose the first picture but replace the AP with the 5131. Otherwise I would go for picture 3.
You have enough Rolex, there is no need for the Daytona.
I can’t raise any enthusiasm whatsoever for the Platona, even though the colour scheme is quite agreeable. Likewise, the 5131 WT, and the Openwork RO – so they’d all go. You could almagamate the 5168 and 5968 into a 5164, adding the GP Laureato Ceramic skeleton/Roger Dubuis Excalibur skeleton, and replace the 5170 with something independant, like a Gronefeld, FPJ, Voutilainen, or Romain Gauthier. You might even consider ditching one of the daily Rolexes too, in favour of one of the Aquanauts or
Though a little too much blue in the quad
Not even close competition
Between the choices proposed-- Photo 1--- most diversity in my opinion
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