The Rolex Deepsea D-Blue, specifically the 2016 model, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its striking gradient blue dial, referencing the deep ocean depths, combined with robust engineering and Rolex's legendary reliability, cemented its status as a highly sought-after collector's piece. Now discontinued, finding one in pristine condition can be a challenge, and its price reflects its desirability. This article delves into the intricacies of the 2016 Rolex Deepsea D-Blue, exploring its features, its place in Rolex history, its current market value (around $9,999.00 and upwards, depending on condition and seller), and addresses some frequently asked questions surrounding this iconic timepiece.
A Legacy of Depth: Understanding the Rolex Deepsea Line
Before examining the specific nuances of the 2016 D-Blue, it's crucial to understand its lineage. The Rolex Deepsea line represents the pinnacle of Rolex's professional diving watches. Born from a desire to push the boundaries of underwater exploration, the Deepsea models are engineered to withstand immense pressure, far exceeding the requirements of recreational diving. Their robust construction, featuring massive cases and highly resistant materials, ensures reliable performance even in the most extreme aquatic environments. The Deepsea's history is intertwined with deep-sea expeditions and scientific endeavors, solidifying its reputation as a tool watch of unparalleled capability.
The Deepsea D-Blue's predecessor, the standard Deepsea, while incredibly capable, lacked the visual flair that would come to define its successor. The 2016 D-Blue, however, introduced a revolutionary design element: the striking gradient blue dial. This wasn't merely an aesthetic choice; it was a tribute to the James Cameron-led Deepsea Challenge expedition to the Mariana Trench. The dial's color transition, from deep blue at the bottom to a lighter shade at the top, mirrored the light absorption characteristics of the ocean's depths. This clever design detail elevated the Deepsea from a purely functional tool watch to a statement piece that captured the imagination of collectors worldwide.
The 2016 Rolex Deepsea D-Blue: A Detailed Examination
The 2016 Rolex Deepsea D-Blue, reference 116660, boasts a 44mm Oyster case crafted from virtually indestructible 904L stainless steel. This robust casing is crucial for withstanding the immense pressure at extreme depths. Its unidirectional rotating bezel, made from scratch-resistant ceramic, is critical for safe decompression during dives. The bezel's distinctive blue ceramic insert complements the dial, adding to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal.
The heart of the watch is the caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision and reliability. This movement, entirely manufactured by Rolex, is a testament to the brand's commitment to in-house manufacturing and quality control. Its paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring provides superior resistance to magnetic fields, ensuring accuracy even in challenging environments.
The watch's sapphire crystal, virtually scratch-proof, protects the stunning gradient blue dial. This dial is not merely a pretty face; its design is functional, providing excellent legibility even in low-light conditions. The luminous markers and hands ensure easy time-telling underwater, a crucial feature for a professional diving watch.
The Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and robust clasp, completes the Deepsea's robust and comfortable design. The Glidelock system allows for precise adjustment of the bracelet length, ensuring a perfect fit even over a wetsuit.
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