6668LB, the Sea-Dweller name has been dropped from the dial, leaving only the Deepsea moniker. This change signifies a new chapter for the Deepsea, positioning it as a standalone icon in the Rolex lineup.
My personal journey with Rolex dive watches began with the Sea-Dweller reference 16600, a model revered for its ruggedness and classic design. Over the years, the Sea-Dweller line has evolved, culminating in the introduction of the Deepsea ref. 116660 in 2008. This model pushed the boundaries of what a dive watch could be, boasting an incredible water resistance rating of 12,800 feet (3,990 meters) and a larger 44mm case size. The Deepsea represented a new era for Rolex, combining advanced engineering with the bold design ethos that the brand is known for.
The latest iteration of this evolution is the Deepsea ref. 136668LB, a full-yellow-gold version that takes luxury diving to unprecedented levels. This watch is not just a tool for underwater exploration but a statement piece that exudes opulence and craftsmanship.
Unveiled in 2023, the Deepsea ref. 136668LB is the first full-yellow-gold version of Rolex’s 44mm professional dive watch. This model is a remarkable blend of luxury and technical prowess, featuring an 18K yellow gold case and bracelet, a royal blue dial, and a blue Cerachrom bezel. This striking combination echoes the color scheme of the Submariner, another iconic Rolex dive watch, but in a far more extravagant package.
The watch measures 44mm in diameter and 17.7mm in thickness, with a lug-to-lug span of 51.8mm and a lug width of 22mm. These dimensions make it a substantial piece, designed to make a bold statement on the wrist. The case is water-resistant to 12,800 feet (3,990 meters), a testament to its professional-grade construction. It features a 5.5mm-thick sapphire crystal and an automatic helium escape valve on the left side, essential for deep-sea divers who need their watches to withstand extreme pressures.
One of the standout features of the new Deepsea is its royal blue dial, complemented by yellow gold indices filled with Chromalight lume, which provides excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The “Ring Lock System” and “Original Gas Escape Valve” text are rendered in gold, adding to the watch’s luxurious feel. The dial’s lower half, now free from the Sea-Dweller name, focuses solely on the Deepsea identity, emphasizing its distinct place in the Rolex collection.
The bezel insert is made of blue Cerachrom, a highly durable ceramic material known for its scratch resistance and color retention. The bezel’s numerals and markers are inlaid with yellow gold, creating a harmonious and eye-catching contrast with the blue backdrop. This meticulous attention to detail extends to every aspect of the watch, from the case construction to the finishing of the bracelet.
Beneath the RLX Titanium screw-down case back lies the heart of the Deepsea ref. 136668LB, the replica Rolex caliber 3235. This in-house automatic movement is renowned for its precision, durability, and efficiency. It features a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, Paraflex shock absorbers, and a generous 70-hour power reserve, ensuring reliable performance whether you’re diving into the depths or navigating the demands of daily life. The caliber 3235 is also used in other prestigious Rolex models, such as the Submariner, Yacht-Master, and Datejust, underscoring its versatility and excellence.
The Deepsea ref. 136668LB is paired with an 18K yellow gold Oyster bracelet, featuring the Glidelock clasp, which allows for fine adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. This bracelet is both robust and comfortable, designed to complement the watch’s substantial size and luxurious aesthetic. Wearing this watch is a unique experience-it’s not just a watch but a statement of style and success. Its weight and presence on the wrist are unmistakable, offering a tangible sense of the craftsmanship and materials that define it.
Rolex has once again pushed the boundaries of what a dive watch can be with the introduction of the full-yellow-gold Deepsea ref. 136668LB. Priced at €54,200, this replica watch is aimed at a discerning audience who appreciate the fusion of advanced watchmaking technology and luxurious materials. It’s a watch for those who want to make a bold statement, whether in the boardroom or on a deep-sea expedition.
The Rolex Deepsea ref. 136668LB is a testament to Rolex’s ability to innovate and elevate its iconic designs. This full-yellow-gold iteration takes the concept of “diving in style” to an entirely new dimension, combining the ruggedness of a professional dive watch with the elegance of precious metal. For those who can pull off its bold size and luxurious demeanor, the Deepsea ref. 136668LB is more than just a watch-it’s a masterpiece of modern horology.
As someone who has long admired the Sea-Dweller line, the new Deepsea represents the pinnacle of what Rolex can achieve. It’s a watch that not only honors the brand’s legacy of technical excellence but also embraces the evolving nature of luxury in the modern world. If ever there was a fake Rolex that could truly be called a statement piece, the Deepsea ref. 136668LB is it. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a connoisseur of fine watches, this is one clone Rolex that demands attention and respect.
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