The Rolex Sea-Dweller Deep Sea represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Rolex Sea-Dweller ref. 16600. The official depth rating of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA, denoted as reference 116660, is an astounding 3,900 meters or 12,800 feet. Upon its debut, it claimed the title of the most water-resistant mechanical watch in mass production. However, it's worth noting that the non-mass-produced Pita Oceana boasts a depth rating surpassing even this robust Rolex timepiece.
The Sea-Dweller Deep Sea, often abbreviated as SDDS, boasts dimensions of 44.0 mm in diameter and 17.7 mm in height. It sports a 5.5 mm thick domed crystal and carries a total weight of 220 grams (including a full-length bracelet). One unique characteristic is that it is the sole Rolex watch featuring a date function without the signature cyclops date magnifier. This design choice is dictated by the watch's remarkable depth rating, as the cyclops would not withstand the immense pressure experienced at significant oceanic depths.