Their largest dive watch to date, Rolex released the Deepsea model in 2008. Featuring a 44mm case, this stainless steel timepiece is larger than the Submariner and features a depth rating of 3,900 meters. As the name suggests, this model was designed for the deep sea exploration.

First Rolex Deepsea Model Introduced in 2008 (photo: Rolex)

Rolex has been actively involved with deep sea exploration for decades. The bathyscaphe Trieste descended into the Mariana Trench in 1960 with Rolex's experimental Deepsea Special model strapped onto it. In 2012, James Cameron went down the trench for his Deepsea Challenge and also took a Rolex experimental dive watch with him, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge.

The result of years of experimentation and engineering, the Deepsea features a Helium Escape Valve and Ringlock system architecture that improves its depth rating significantly as compared to previous models. It has a domed sapphire crystal that is 5.5 mm thick with no cyclops magnifying lens. A Triplock crown keeps the water from entering the case, ensuring a secure seal.

In 2014, Rolex released this model with a unique D-Blue dial, featuring a blue gradient on the dial to commemorate the historic Deepsea Challenge of 2012. This model also features a unique chartreuse DEEPSEA insignia on the dial, the same color as the submersible used in the challenge.

Rolex D-Blue Deepsea Model (photo: Rolex)

Since its release, there have been endless comparisons between this watch and the Rolex Submariner model. To see how the Deepsea measures up to the Submariner Date, check out my model comparison.

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Rolex Deepsea Reference 116660 (photo: Rolex)

The Deepsea owes its depth rating to the Ringlock system architecture used to waterproof the Oyster case. A Helium Escape Valve was also developed to control the release of helium that enters the watch case during the descent, ensuring that the case does not crack under the pressure. A Triplock winding crown completes the seal with triple protection from water entering the case through the crown.

The Deepsea is equipped with a 3135 movement, a Rolex-certified superlative chronometer with a power reserve of about 48 hours. The bezel features a 60 minute graduated black Cerachrom insert that is highly resistant to scratching and fading. The 904L stainless steel Oyster bracelet comes with an Oysterlock clasp, Fliplock extension link and Glidelock extension system, allowing a diver to extend the bracelet to fit over a wetsuit.

The suggested retail price for the Rolex Deepsea is 11,500 Swiss francs, or $11,831 US. This model is also available with a D-Blue gradient dial to commemorate the 2012 Deepsea Challenge.

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