Rolex has unveiled a luxe version of one of its top-of-the-line divers, the Deepsea ref. 136668 LB, which boasts a blue lacquer dial paired with a yellow gold case and bracelet. The timepiece makes a significant statement while preserving all the depth performance associated with its steel Deepsea Sea-Dweller.

Initial thoughts

Rolex has been hinting at forthcoming novelties on social media for a while, sparking anticipation among enthusiasts like myself who speculated that perhaps a new Submariner model was in development.

However, the brand surprised us with something pretty unexpected. The new Deepsea features the iconic blue and yellow gold colour scheme reminiscent of past Submariner models, which adds a touch of nostalgia to the release. With a diameter of 44 mm, this watch carries considerable weight, especially with its heavy yellow gold construction, which adds substantial heft to the wrist.

Priced at US$52,100, it far surpasses the cost of comparable steel models, which are roughly a third of its price. However, considering the solid yellow gold construction, the price is fitting, considering the current market climate.

Blue and yellow gold 

The latest model is a successor to the steel Deepsea Sea-Dweller. It maintains the renowned pressure-resistant architecture, with a ceramic compression ring and the Ringlock system for the bezel. Sporting a vibrant blue hue, the bezel, compression ring and dial all sharply contrast with the gilded gold lettering on the dial and the striking yellow gold case.

The steel Deepsea Sea-Dweller ref. 126660. Image – Rolex

In addition to the new case material and dial, the new Deepsea retains the same base case construction and proportions as the steel models. The case remains 44 mm in diameter and 17.7 mm thick. Interestingly, the helium escape valve and the caseback are made from RLX titanium. Titanium was necessary for depth-proofing the watch, as gold is objectively a soft metal. Under intense pressure, the titanium remains largely unaffected – which is crucial for both the special case back and the finely engineered helium valve.

The timepiece also features a Triplock screw-down crown. The hefty yellow gold bracelet incorporates the brand’s proprietary Easylink extension system as well as the Deepsea-exclusive Oysterlock safety clasp.

Powering the timepiece is workhorse cal. 3235 – the same movement found in the steel Deepsea Sea-Dweller ref. 126660, which is comes with the efficient Chronergy escapement, a non-magnetic Parachrom hairspring and offers a power reserve of 70 hours. The watch boasts an exceptional water resistance of up to 12,800 ft, or 3,900 m. Its hands and indices feature bright blue Chromalight luminescence, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions.

Key facts and price

Rolex Deepsea 
Ref. 136668LB

Diameter: 44 mm
Height: 17.7 mm
Material: 18k yellow gold
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 3,900 m

Movement: Cal. 3235
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 70 hours

Strap: Matching bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: Available in Rolex authorised retailers
Price: US$52,100

For more information, visit Rolex.com.