Exclusive Timepieces 7 –⁠ 8 December 2019 | Monaco

Auction Details

A wide selection of very fine vintage timepieces, property of various prominent collectors will be presented in this sale. Including a fine selection of Longines Chronograph coming from one of the most important collections worldwide.

59 Rolex Fine and Large Sea-Dweller Deepsea Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 116 660, Sweep Centre Seconds, Date, Helium Escape Valve, Ceramic Bezel, Bracelet and Warranty Card

Estimate: € 5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Sold € 8,450

Model: Sea-Dweller Deepsea
Material: Stainless Steel
Reference N°: 116660
Year: 2008
Case N°: M847297
Caliber: 3135
Movement type: Automatic
Bracelet: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 44 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Rolex Warranty Card

Rolex has always had water as a favorite element for new and increasingly efficient watch-tools since, in 1927, it put the first completely waterproof watch on the wrist of the British swimmer Mercedes Gleitze. From that moment on, the capacity of immersion of Rolex timepieces increased more and more and in 1967 was created the first Sea-Dweller. Since that moment the Sea-Dweller became the favorite within the collection community, with Rolex which always tried to improve and perfect this model. In 2008 was so presented to the public the first Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea with its incredible ability to reach up to 12 800 feet (3900M) in depth. Maximum expression of Rolex’s leadership in the field of underwater watchmaking the reference 116 660, of which we are please to have an example, is the result of years of collaboration with professional divers. To be able to reach such a high depth, some necessary changes were made such as the thickening of the sapphire crystal up to 5mm, the addition of a titanium alloy case back to ensure more rigidity, as well as the patented “Ring Lock System” that reduced stress on the case. Unmissable is the iconic helium valve escape patented in 1967. This last model is bigger than the previous one and more massive with its solid 44-millimetre case. The present lot is offered in almost unworn conditions: the stainless steel case and bracelet are perfect such as the graduated unidirectional revolving bezel in black ceramic for the decompression times. The triplock winding crown is protected by two thicker crown guards. The black dial with luminous white gold round, triangular and baton indexes and aperture for the date presents the wording “Original Gas Escape Valve – Ring Lock System”. Offered with the original credit card warranty, this watch equipped with a series of ingenious technical features and its outstanding design is able to recall passionates from all over the world.