Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000ft 116600 Discontinued 2016 [Preowned]

Overview 

The Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000ft reference 116600 holds a unique and highly significant place in Rolex's lineage of professional diving instruments. Rooted in the 1960s, the Sea-Dweller was purpose-built for hardcore divers, designed for missions that exceeded the capabilities of the Submariner. Its inception marked Rolex's commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration. After a seven-year hiatus following the introduction of the Deepsea in 2008, the 116600 dramatically re-emerged in 2014, signaling a return to the classic Sea-Dweller aesthetic, albeit with modern advancements, before its discontinuation in 2017.

This reference distinguishes itself by retaining the quintessential Sea-Dweller characteristics, refined for a contemporary era. Its 40mm Oystersteel case presents a more traditional and universally appealing dimension compared to its larger Deepsea sibling, embodying the robust, thicker profile and helium escape valve that define the collection. The unidirectional rotating bezel, equipped with a black Cerachrom insert, offers superior scratch resistance and accurate elapsed time measurement, crucial for professional diving. This combination of classic sizing and modern material science appeals to purists and enthusiasts alike.

The dial of the 116600 is a masterclass in legibility, even in the most challenging conditions. Featuring large, luminous hour markers and Rolex's signature hands, all coated with Chromalight for exceptional glow, visibility is never compromised. The absence of the Cyclops lens over the date is another hallmark of the Sea-Dweller line, reflecting its uncompromised tool-watch philosophy. Despite its formidable capabilities, the watch maintains a sophisticated appearance, paired with the robust Oyster bracelet that ensures secure and comfortable wear.

As the immediate predecessor to the larger 43mm 126600, the Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000ft 116600 occupies a special niche as a short-lived, 40mm professional diver. Its brief production run from 2014 to 2017 makes it a highly sought-after reference for collectors who appreciate its blend of classic proportions, dedicated diving features like the helium escape valve, and updated Rolex technology. It represents a precise, purposeful, and exceptionally robust instrument, embodying the spirit of deep-sea adventure in a size that resonates with many.

Specifications

Condition

Preowned, Excellent Condition, Complete Original Set with Box and Papers dated January 2016

Warranty

1 year warranty from SCW