Rolex Deepsea Yellow Gold: New Release

GWIS · 2024-07-17T16:22:16Z

Explore the new yellow gold Rolex Deepsea, its bold design, and technical prowess. GWIS shares photos and insights, sparking a collector debate.

GWIS

WPS member · Rolex forum

41 replies9359 views1 photos

Jon (GWIS) shares his initial impressions and photographs of the new yellow gold Rolex Deepsea, spotted in a Bucherer case. His candid take on its wrist presence and aesthetic offers a valuable perspective, prompting a discussion among collectors about the watch's audacious design and technical prowess. This piece explores whether Rolex's latest Deepsea iteration hits the mark for its intended audience.

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A couple quick shots of the new Deepsea in a case in Bucherer. I took these pictures two days ago and I went back today to ask if I could try it on but it’s been sold.

It looks more attractive in the metal than I thought it would but, much as I love the Deepsea, this version would not be for me. It’s as subtle as a punch in the face!

All the best,

Jon

About the Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 Ref. 116600

The Sea-Dweller reference 116600 marked the return of the 40mm case size for the model, a dimension that had been absent from the Sea-Dweller lineup for some time. This reference reintroduced several classic Sea-Dweller design elements, distinguishing it from its larger contemporary, the Sea-Dweller 4000. It was produced for a relatively short period, making it a notable transitional model within the brand's professional tool watch offerings.

This reference features a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter and 15.3mm in thickness. It is equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel made of black ceramic with a 60-minute graduation. The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 3135, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the black dial, which includes a date complication without the cyclops lens, a characteristic feature of the Sea-Dweller line.

Appealing to collectors who appreciate traditional proportions and the technical capabilities of a professional dive watch, the 116600 is recognized for its blend of heritage design and modern materials. Its limited production run contributes to its appeal among enthusiasts seeking a Sea-Dweller with a more classic case size and specific aesthetic details, such as the matte-like black dial and the absence of the cyclops over the date.

Specifications

Caliber: 3135

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 1220m

Crystal: Sapphire crystal

Key Points from the Discussion

The yellow gold Deepsea, while visually striking, presents a significant wrist presence due to its size and material, making it 'immense on the wrist' for many.
There is a technical marvel in Rolex producing a gold watch capable of extreme depth ratings, especially considering gold's inherent softness, likely achieved through an inner case design.
The 44mm solid gold Deepsea demands a 'really strong wrist' to wear comfortably, highlighting its substantial weight and dimensions.
The availability of such high-demand Rolex sports watches for sale in ADs varies significantly by region, with some markets still primarily seeing them as exhibition pieces.
The yellow gold Deepsea is perceived as a 'confidence watch' for those who embrace its bold statement, with the Smurf-type dial being a crucial design element that enhances its appeal over a metallic sunray alternative.
Despite its extreme dive capabilities, the primary buyers of this gold Deepsea are likely collectors who appreciate its luxury and statement, rather than those who will utilize its full depth rating.
The existence of this watch is appreciated, even by those who prefer other Deepsea references like the JC 126660, acknowledging Rolex's continued innovation.

The Discussion

amanico

Jul 17, 2024

James Cameron Deep Sea in steel for me, please. Thank you. ;)

GWIS

Jul 17, 2024

Yes sir, certainly sir!

I quite agree.

amanico

Jul 17, 2024

And for that price you can also add a GMT MASTER in steel.... ;)

Lankysudanese

Jul 17, 2024

That is as oxymoronic, an offering, as can be. IMHO off course

GWIS

Jul 17, 2024

Agreed, Hussam.

Although at a technical level I am impressed that Rolex have made a gold watch that can withstand the stated depth, plus at least 25%. Albeit with an inner case inside the gold outer case. I would have thought that gold would be far too soft for anywhere near this depth.

Bruno.M1

Jul 17, 2024

Swimming with this ….

…. Will quickly take you to the deepest point in the sea