The Rolex Sea-Dweller Single Red, reference 126600, released in 2017, represents a significant moment in the history of this iconic dive watch. Its clean design, harking back to the original Sea-Dwellers while incorporating modern advancements, quickly established it as a highly sought-after collectible. This article delves into the specifics of the 2017 model, explores its place within the broader Sea-Dweller lineage, and examines its current market value, referencing the listed price of $13,180 for a very good condition example. This price point, while substantial, reflects the watch's desirability and robust resale value within the competitive world of luxury timepieces.
A Legacy of Depth: Understanding the Sea-Dweller's History
Before examining the specifics of the 2017 Single Red, it's crucial to understand the Sea-Dweller's rich history. Born from a collaboration with Comex, a French commercial diving company, the Sea-Dweller was designed to withstand the extreme pressures encountered at significant depths. The original models, with their distinctive double red lettering on the dial, became legendary for their robust construction and reliability in challenging underwater environments. These early models, however, were not without their quirks and imperfections.
Over the years, the Sea-Dweller underwent various iterations, each reflecting advancements in horological technology and evolving design aesthetics. The transition from the double red to the single red lettering marked a significant shift, simplifying the dial and creating a more refined aesthetic. The 2017 Single Red, with its reference number 126600, perfectly encapsulates this evolution, blending the heritage of the past with the innovation of the present.
The 2017 Single Red: A Detailed Examination
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Single Red (ref. 126600) from 2017 boasts a 43mm Oyster case crafted from high-grade 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance. This robust case houses the caliber 3235, an in-house movement developed by Rolex, showcasing the brand’s commitment to self-sufficiency and precision. The caliber 3235 is a marvel of modern horology, offering improved accuracy, power reserve (approximately 70 hours), and enhanced resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. This is a significant upgrade compared to previous Sea-Dweller movements.
The dial, the focal point of the watch, is a testament to Rolex's minimalist design philosophy. The single red "Sea-Dweller" text, positioned above the date window at 3 o'clock, stands out against the black matte backdrop. Large, luminous hour markers and hands ensure excellent legibility, even in low-light conditions. The cyclops lens over the date magnifies the date for easy reading, a hallmark feature of many Rolex models. The unidirectional rotating bezel, with its distinctive ceramic insert, provides divers with crucial timing capabilities, ensuring safe decompression. The bezel is incredibly resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring its functionality and aesthetic appeal remain consistent over time.
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