Rolex Sea-Dweller
In 1967, Rolex created the Oyster Perpetual Sea-Dweller to meet the challenge of prolonged underwater operations. Designed specifically for saturation diving, its helium escape valve allows it to withstand decompression during the ascent and survive the return to the surface, the final stage of deep-sea exploration.
Waterproof to 610 metres at its launch in 1967 and to 1,220 metres from 1978, the Sea-Dweller combines every feature of a modern divers’ watch.
The Sea-Dweller was tested in real conditions during the Tektite programme launched in 1969 by NASA, the US Navy and the US government, and used in early large-scale underwater habitat experiments.
A new face of diving
Since the 1960s, saturation diving has enabled longer stays at great depths. Divers live under the pressure of their working depth and undergo a single decompression procedure only at the end of the mission.
Their helium-rich breathing gas can penetrate a watch case. During ascent, trapped helium can create excess internal pressure and impair the watch.
Safe decompression with the helium escape valve
Rolex solved this problem in 1967 with the Sea-Dweller and its helium escape valve. Its hermetic cylinder, piston, gasket and spring open automatically when internal pressure becomes too high, allowing helium atoms to escape.
Universal legibility
The Chromalight display ensures optimal legibility in every condition. Hour markers, hands, pearl and dial use a luminescent material that emits a long-lasting blue glow in darkness.
Enhanced waterproofness
The Sea-Dweller features a Triplock winding crown with three sealed zones. It reinforces the waterproofness of the Oyster case, whose middle case is crafted from a solid block of corrosion-resistant Oystersteel.
The watch of ocean guardians
Explorers and oceanographers such as Sylvia Earle and underwater photographers such as David Doubilet work to protect the oceans and wear the Sea-Dweller as a symbol of their commitment.
Since partnering with Comex in 1971, Rolex has equipped the divers of this leading French underwater engineering and technology company with Sea-Dweller watches.
