The Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000, specifically reference 116600, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts and professional divers alike. Representing the culmination of decades of innovation and refinement within the Sea-Dweller line, this model boasts a compelling blend of robust functionality, iconic design, and enduring legacy. Understanding its production years is key to appreciating its place in horological history and the nuances that distinguish different examples within the market. While Rolex doesn't publicly announce precise production start and end dates for specific references, we can glean a significant amount of information from various sources, including serial numbers, collector databases, and retailer records.
Production Timeline: A Murky but Fascinating Subject
Pinpointing the exact start and end of production for the reference 116600 Sea-Dweller 4000 is challenging. Rolex maintains a degree of secrecy around its production numbers and timelines. However, based on available information, we can estimate the production period to have spanned roughly from around 2008 to 2014. This is an approximation, and individual watches may fall slightly outside this range due to variations in distribution and retailer stock.
The crucial point is that the 116600 represents a significant shift in the Sea-Dweller line. It marked a return to the single-red "Sea-Dweller" text on the dial, abandoning the previous double-red "Sea-Dweller 4000" found on earlier models. This subtle but important aesthetic change, coupled with the overall design refinement, solidified its position as a highly sought-after piece. The transition from the previous generation to the 116600 was gradual, meaning that finding precise date ranges for the last produced 16600 and the first produced 116600 is difficult. Overlapping production periods are not uncommon in Rolex's history.
The 116600: A Final Iteration of a Classic
In all respects, the reference 116600 is very much the final iteration of the classic, tried, and true Sea-Dweller design before the introduction of the larger 43mm Sea-Dweller (ref. 126600). It represents a pinnacle of what makes a Sea-Dweller so desirable:
* Robust Construction: The 40mm Oyster case, crafted from virtually indestructible 904L stainless steel, offers exceptional water resistance to 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), hence the name. The Triplock crown system further enhances water resistance and prevents accidental unscrewing.
* Reliable Movement: Powered by Rolex's Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and robustness, this watch is built to last. The 3135 is a workhorse movement, a testament to Rolex's commitment to quality and longevity. Its robust construction ensures accuracy and reliability even in the harshest conditions.
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