111 Rolex Very Well Preserved and Attractive, Sea-Dweller, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel and Yellow Gold, With Box and Papers, Reference 126603, Gifted by John Goldberger

Estimate: €10,000 –⁠ 20,000

Model: Sea-Dweller
Reference: 126603
Case Material: Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 2021
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 3235
Case N°: 4YN93647
Dimensions: 43 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box, Warranty, Booklets, Tag and Additional Bracelet

The Rolex Sea-Dweller was introduced in 1967 as a professional diving watch, designed to withstand extreme underwater conditions. It was developed in collaboration with pioneers in deep-sea exploration, such as the French diving company COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertises). The first model, the Sea-Dweller 1665, featured a groundbreaking helium escape valve, allowing it to release gas buildup during decompression, crucial for divers working at great depths. Over time, the Sea-Dweller evolved with the addition of modern materials, improved movement technology, and updates to design. Crafted from a blend of steel and yellow gold, the Rolex Sea-Dweller 126 603 is among the last specimens produced and epitomizes excellence in the esteemed Sea-Dweller series, renowned for its resilience and aquatic capabilities. Its robust 43 mm steel case houses a yellow gold unidirectional rotatable bezel with a black Cerachrom insert, combining durability with sophistication. Designed for extreme underwater conditions, it features an escape valve ensuring the safe release of helium gas during saturation diving, thus safeguarding its integrity against extreme underwater pressures. Powered by Rolex’s caliber 3235, it offers a 70-hour power reserve. Luminescent hour markers and hands on the dial ensure visibility, complemented by a practical date window at 3 o’clock. Water-resistant to 1 220 meters (4 000 feet), it excels in professional diving, delivering great performance in the most challenging underwater environments. This example is in exceptional condition, with original box, papers, and steel and gold Oyster bracelet. However, what truly sets this timepiece apart is the special engraving on the back—a testament to its unique provenance. This watch bears a heartfelt inscription from the iconic horological figure John Goldberger, who gave the watch as a present to a very close friend in sign of appreciation and friendship.