The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea D-Blue, particularly the 2017 model (Reference number 116660-0003), holds a special place in the hearts of many watch enthusiasts. This iconic timepiece, with its striking gradient blue dial and robust build, represents a pinnacle of Rolex engineering and design. Its discontinuation has only served to elevate its desirability and collector value, making it a highly sought-after piece in the pre-owned market. This article will explore the 2017 Rolex Deepsea D-Blue in detail, examining its specifications, history, market value, and what makes it such a compelling watch.
A Legacy of Depth: Understanding the Rolex Deepsea Lineage
Before delving into the specifics of the 2017 D-Blue, it's crucial to understand its place within the broader Rolex Deepsea family. The Deepsea line is engineered for extreme depths, pushing the boundaries of horological engineering. Designed to withstand the immense pressure of the ocean's abyss, these watches are built to last. Their robust construction, incorporating advanced materials and innovative design features, ensures unparalleled reliability and performance, even in the most challenging environments.
The Deepsea's history is intertwined with James Cameron's record-breaking solo dive to the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench. This collaboration resulted in the creation of the Deepsea Challenge watch, a prototype that proved the capabilities of Rolex technology at extreme depths. The knowledge gained from this project directly influenced the subsequent development and refinement of the production Deepsea models, leading to the introduction of the iconic D-Blue dial.
The Allure of the 2017 Deepsea D-Blue (116660-0003)
The 2017 Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea D-Blue (116660-0003) stands out with its distinctive gradient blue dial. This unique design, transitioning from a deep, almost black blue at the bottom to a lighter, brighter blue at the top, pays homage to the ocean's depths, mirroring the changing light levels experienced during a deep-sea dive. This visually stunning dial, combined with the robust Oyster case and unidirectional rotating bezel, makes for a truly captivating timepiece.
The watch boasts a 44mm Oyster case, crafted from high-grade 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and scratch resistance. The Triplock winding crown, a hallmark of Rolex's water resistance technology, ensures a secure seal, contributing to the watch's impressive water resistance rating of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet).
Inside the robust case beats the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement, renowned for its reliability and precision. This movement showcases Rolex's commitment to horological excellence, offering exceptional accuracy and a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
Market Value and Availability: A Collector's Item
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea D-Blue 2017 is no longer in production, making it a highly sought-after piece in the pre-owned market. Prices vary depending on the condition of the watch and the seller, but expect to pay a significant premium over the original retail price. A listing price of $12,984, as mentioned earlier, represents a typical price range for a watch in very good condition. However, prices can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of the individual watch. Finding a genuine and authenticated example may require diligent searching and verification.
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