Rolex and James Cameron launch Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller Deepsea Challenge It is unlikely that you or I will dive to a depth of 60m below the surface of the ocean in our lifetimes. Saturation divers can work underwater for weeks at a depth of approximately 300m. Therefore, the idea of reaching 10,908m deep into the Mariana Trench is unthinkable. However, that's exactly what filmmaker James Cameron did on his Deepsea Challenger submersible in 2012, and mounted an experimental Rolex on the exterior of the vehicle. Now, the experimental timepiece has been adapted into Rolex’s new Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge watch.
It’s worth noting that while Rolex calls this a “wearable” version of its 2012 Deepsea watch, the requirement to achieve an 11,000m water resistance rating (nearly double that of the Omega Ultra Deep) means some sacrifices have to be made. Wear resistance is one such sacrifice. The diameter of the Deepsea Challenge is 50 mm, and the thickness of the sapphire glass alone is 9.5 mm. Calling it a "big watch" might be an understatement for 2022.
However, while the proportions may be large, every effort has been made to keep the weight of the work as low as possible. The annular case, bezel, caseback and crown are all made from grade 5 titanium, which offers excellent resistance to scratches and corrosion, while the frame is both lightweight and strong. Even though this is Rolex, they don't call it grade 5 titanium, but RLX titanium. It is also equipped with a helium escape valve to vent excess gas during decompression.
Aesthetically, it has a classic Sea-Dweller dive bezel with knurled edges and black ceramic inserts. The dial itself is also very classic. Large round, rectangular and triangular luminous hour markers are instantly legible at any depth, and the iconic Rolex handset completes the look. The matte black dial is engraved with "Rolex Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge" below the 12 o'clock mark and "Sea-Dweller 36090' = 11000m Superlative ChronometerOfficially Certified" below the 6 o'clock mark.
Inside is the Rolex-made Caliber 3230 movement. It’s an automatic movement with a perpetual rotor that offers a 70-hour power reserve. Also, as the dial inscription above tells us, it is a certified superlative chronometer with an accuracy of +// - 2 seconds.
The bracelet, like the case, is made of satin-brushed titanium and features Rolex’s Glidelock extension system so it can be easily worn over a wetsuit. This is undoubtedly Rolex’s most impressive launch of 2022. Extreme engineering, classic Rolex aesthetics, and a collaboration with James Cameron combine to make the Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge a collector’s dream, even if it’s too big to wear.
Model: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge Watch Reference number: 126067 Case/Dial: 50mm diameter, RLX titanium case, deep matte black dial, 18k white gold hour markers and blue luminous hands Water resistance: 11,000m (110 bar) Movement: Rolex 3230, automatic, 31 jewels, COSC Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz) Power reserve: 70 hours Functions: hours, minutes, seconds Strap: Titanium bracelet, Oysterfold safety clasp, Rolex Glidelock extension system