The Rolex Sea-Dweller

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The Sea-Dweller came about from a perceived need to have a robust dive watch that could withstand depths encountered by submersible divers, and also automatically release pressure of helium molecules that build up inside the watch after deep dives in helium rich breathing mixtures.

Original Sea-Dwellers were modified Submariners and command high premiums in todays vintage market.
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. The Rolex Sea-Dweller was the first model in the sport's line to get SEL's (Solid End Links).
. The HEV (Helium Valve) is made of Titanium.
. The SD was the only watch to have an engraving on the edge of the caseback ("Rolex Oyster - Original Gas Escape Valve"). Now, with the Milgauss, there exist two Rolex models with caseback engravings (the Milgauss stating "Milgauss" on the edge of the caseback).


Sea-Dweller Reference Numbers: 5514,1665,16600

Date of production: prototypes in 1967 with regular production 1971 to present

Movement: 3135 since 1989

Case size: 40mm

Power Reserve: ~44 hours

Photographs

(Photos courtesy of Mike)
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/comp3.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/155_5563.jpg

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/152_5244-50.jpg

Links:

http://doubleredseadweller.com/index.htm