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mike · 22 December 2008, 10:52 AM

First let me say how funny things work out. Over the course of the year I've sold six watches in an effort to consolidate my collection. Within the last month I've added four back. So much for that.

Yesterday my AD called. My DSSD came in. Over the last 24 hours I've worn the watch and would like to share my initial impressions with you about a reference that seems to evoke strong emotions one way or the other.

First let me introduce the newest member of the clan.

The DSSD reference 116660 V serial number,

As some of you know the name "DEEP SEA" is not new to the history of Rolex. Indeed in the 60s Rolex made a special set of prototypes bearing the name, at least one of which was strapped to the outside of the bathosphere TRIESTE when it made it's recording breaking dive to over 35,000 feet.

Complete details are contained herein--CREDIT BJSONLINE

http://www.bjsonline.com/watches/articles/0022.shtml

Much has been written about the size of the DSSD. It is certainly a big watch, but to be honest I've worn watches as heavy or heavier than the DS, the Planet Ocean is one that comes to mind. Those who favor the PANERAI might find the size of the DSSD "normal" while I certainly understand those used to the more traditional Rolex offerings will "feel" the difference. I've found one adapts quickly to the DSs added heft and thickness. (Though I grant going under some shirt cuffs might be exciting

)

I have found that as with most watches proper sizing cures all and with the addition of the glidelock clasp a nice fit is easily obtained.

What I did.

At the ADs I asked the diver's extention be removed. This piece appears to be about 2 links worth and rather than remove some of the screw links and risk the watch leaning to one side or the other I took this route and was completely satisfied.

My watchmaker came out, tools in hand, and did the job, even applying a new drop of locktite to the screw.

The divers extention,

With the help of the glidelock,

I was able to get a great fit on my 6 3/4 inch wrist.

As some have mentioned the bracelet, upon first glance seemed "underpowered" compared to the heft of the DS case, but that quickly went away when the watch was put on.

The bezel is EVERYTHING I have read.

Still possessed of 120 clicks this one is by far the smoothest working system I have ever used. Kudos to Rolex for this one.

I also like the fact that it harkens back to select Mil subs with it's 60 graduations as opposed to the more familiar first 15 minutes.

Much has been written about the lume (or lack thereof) of Rolex timepieces. I must admit the blue is nice and very easy to read in less than ideal conditions.

Interestingly it seems Rolex has at least acknowledged the shot commings their lume has had.

I'll have to study furthur to see if longevity is enhanced.

Interestingly this is subject that has been addressed,

http://forums.timezone.com/index.php...=4129915&rid=0

My sad attempt,

and a comparison with the traditional green,

To the collector a domed crystal is a thing of beauty and the DSSD certainly pays hommage to the days of old,

As with Dwellers of the past the caseback continues the legend albiet with the addition of titanium,

The box is a bit bigger, it has a seperate hangtag for the glidelock and a bezel protector that can double as a hula hoop.

Pricing is a big issue with the reference as well as practically.

You'll get no arguement as to the cost, but that is an issue each of us has to answer for ourselves. For me, and my relationship with my AD I'm happy.

Practicality...again a question each of us must answer. For me the engineering of the watch, it's links to a bygone era, and the fact it's a watch I can reasonably wear ...a lot make it fine for me.

As always the case each will view it through different eyes.

werc1 · 22 December 2008, 10:57 AM

wow, stunning watch. nice buy

Tools · 22 December 2008, 11:07 AM

Great overview Mike....

Glad your wait is over..........congratulations..

mretzloff · 23 December 2008, 11:33 AM

Nice review. It looks great on you.

Out of curiosity, did you at first not like the DSSD or have you wanted one since its release?

mike · 23 December 2008, 07:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mretzloff

Nice review. It looks great on you.

Out of curiosity, did you at first not like the DSSD or have you wanted one since its release?

I did Matt. Dwellers are a special breed of diver.

At some point after I "recover"

I'd like to "go back in time" and add a vintage example to complete the trio.

mike · 23 December 2008, 07:42 PM

Thank you all for the wonderful comments.

Sharing the experience is half the fun.

cully · 23 December 2008, 11:13 PM

Congratulations, Mike
It really fits you well in those pics. Wear it in good health

Cheers

Paul

topcat30093 · 24 December 2008, 07:55 PM

Beautiful photos,Mike

Gil F. · 22 December 2008, 11:08 AM

Great review and pics ...congrats on a great addition to your collection!

Cato · 22 December 2008, 11:10 AM

Now, that's a watch! I love the new bracelet.

Letsgodiving · 22 December 2008, 11:14 AM

I was wondering about this recently and looking forward to your take on things. Nice job and congrats!

buz-lh · 22 December 2008, 11:15 AM

Congratulations Mike and thank you for your valued impressions and opinions regarding this watch. Interesting taking the diving link for more comfort and better fit. I wonder how many people actually use theirs.

Lol-x · 22 December 2008, 11:16 AM

Congrats mike, so does it feel heavy?

That is my only concern.

Thanks for the mini-review

1MAC · 22 December 2008, 11:20 AM

Nice pics and a great review. Thanks and congratulations!

mike · 22 December 2008, 11:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lol-x

Congrats mike, so does it feel heavy?

That is my only concern.

Thanks for the mini-review

Steve, it's certainly heavier than the SD or the Milgauss, but not uncomfortable. I think the key is fit.

onkyo · 22 December 2008, 11:23 AM

Thank you for the excellent review and superb photos. It is truly a masterpiece and a must have for a collector!

Wear it in the best of health

JohnEaton · 22 December 2008, 11:30 AM

Congrats Mike

Doesn't it feel a bit light with the dive extension removed?

mike · 22 December 2008, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnEaton

Congrats Mike

Doesn't it feel a bit light with the dive extension removed?

Oh, it floats now.

SSD · 22 December 2008, 11:41 AM

Big congrats Mike, a great acquisition! I liked the Deep Sea the first time I saw one, and enjoyed the review and excellent photos as well. Your shots were superb as usual.

I was surprised to see it fit so well on my wrists, they're about the same size as yours. I commented on this to Rawhyde, and he pointed out that if someone can wear a Tudor chrono, the DSSD will fit nicely as their dimensions are similar.

Great post!

mailman · 22 December 2008, 11:49 AM

Congratulations Mike

Enjoy it in good health my friend

JohnEaton · 22 December 2008, 12:00 PM

It's a DSSD, it's NOT "heavy" it has presence, lots of presence...

Mike, do you normally wear on your right wrist?

mike · 22 December 2008, 12:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnEaton

It's a DSSD, it's NOT "heavy" it has presence, lots of presence...

Mike, do you normally wear on your right wrist?

Yeah, my wife says I'm "special".

kcmo · 22 December 2008, 12:11 PM

Congrats Mike! Great analysis and pics! Enjoy it!

rxgremlin · 22 December 2008, 12:35 PM

That is excllent review and your photos are top notch. The best part for me is that for the first time I really got a sense of what this watch is all about. Your attention to detail is great. I never noticed the ticks on the bezel between the numbers (not just 0-15) or the Glidelock hang tag.Wear it proudly!

Dr.B · 22 December 2008, 12:41 PM

Wow, nice photos....and beautiful watch!

JF23 · 22 December 2008, 02:01 PM

Congrats on another beautiful watch Mike.

Trurolexer · 22 December 2008, 07:37 PM

Finally...A Long Wait DSSD...HUGE CONGRATS, SIR!!!

haakon59 · 23 December 2008, 04:52 AM

Congratulations. So you are finding the DSSD has better lume? At least it sounds like this is what you are saying. Regardless, I think it looks good on your wrist. And to think, it came in just in time for the holidays--how great was that!

Jocke · 23 December 2008, 06:30 AM

Congrats Mike.

The extension link give the bracelet a cheap look so I just love when you took it off.
I see the endlinks not fits the case perfect, I don't know why Rolex made them that way.

So with your wrist now you know how an asian guy with a Panerai feels.

Wear it in good health my friend.

jocke

moby33 · 23 December 2008, 06:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jocke

I see the endlinks not fits the case perfect, I don't know why Rolex made them that way.

Absolutely correct. I noticed the same thing on mine when I first brought it home. While it doesn't really bother me, I will admit I thought to myself when I first saw it, "Why can't Rolex get the endlinks perfectly aligned?" It's a small attention to detail that was overlooked yet seems to be so easy to correct.

Ironic...they develop a watch that can go down over 12K ft yet can't seem to mill the endlinks perfectly flush with the case?

Oh well...as I said, doesn't really bother me wrt my overall enjoyment of the watch, but definitely something that makes you go "Hummm..."

22 December 2008, 10:52 AM	#1
mike "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 22,683	The wait is over First let me say how funny things work out. Over the course of the year I've sold six watches in an effort to consolidate my collection. Within the last month I've added four back. So much for that. Yesterday my AD called. My DSSD came in. Over the last 24 hours I've worn the watch and would like to share my initial impressions with you about a reference that seems to evoke strong emotions one way or the other. First let me introduce the newest member of the clan. The DSSD reference 116660 V serial number, As some of you know the name "DEEP SEA" is not new to the history of Rolex. Indeed in the 60s Rolex made a special set of prototypes bearing the name, at least one of which was strapped to the outside of the bathosphere TRIESTE when it made it's recording breaking dive to over 35,000 feet. Complete details are contained herein--CREDIT BJSONLINE http://www.bjsonline.com/watches/articles/0022.shtml Much has been written about the size of the DSSD. It is certainly a big watch, but to be honest I've worn watches as heavy or heavier than the DS, the Planet Ocean is one that comes to mind. Those who favor the PANERAI might find the size of the DSSD "normal" while I certainly understand those used to the more traditional Rolex offerings will "feel" the difference. I've found one adapts quickly to the DSs added heft and thickness. (Though I grant going under some shirt cuffs might be exciting) I have found that as with most watches proper sizing cures all and with the addition of the glidelock clasp a nice fit is easily obtained. What I did. At the ADs I asked the diver's extention be removed. This piece appears to be about 2 links worth and rather than remove some of the screw links and risk the watch leaning to one side or the other I took this route and was completely satisfied. My watchmaker came out, tools in hand, and did the job, even applying a new drop of locktite to the screw. The divers extention, With the help of the glidelock, I was able to get a great fit on my 6 3/4 inch wrist. As some have mentioned the bracelet, upon first glance seemed "underpowered" compared to the heft of the DS case, but that quickly went away when the watch was put on. The bezel is EVERYTHING I have read. Still possessed of 120 clicks this one is by far the smoothest working system I have ever used. Kudos to Rolex for this one. I also like the fact that it harkens back to select Mil subs with it's 60 graduations as opposed to the more familiar first 15 minutes. Much has been written about the lume (or lack thereof) of Rolex timepieces. I must admit the blue is nice and very easy to read in less than ideal conditions. Interestingly it seems Rolex has at least acknowledged the shot commings their lume has had. I'll have to study furthur to see if longevity is enhanced. Interestingly this is subject that has been addressed, http://forums.timezone.com/index.php...=4129915&rid=0 My sad attempt, and a comparison with the traditional green, To the collector a domed crystal is a thing of beauty and the DSSD certainly pays hommage to the days of old, As with Dwellers of the past the caseback continues the legend albiet with the addition of titanium, The box is a bit bigger, it has a seperate hangtag for the glidelock and a bezel protector that can double as a hula hoop. Pricing is a big issue with the reference as well as practically. You'll get no arguement as to the cost, but that is an issue each of us has to answer for ourselves. For me, and my relationship with my AD I'm happy. Practicality...again a question each of us must answer. For me the engineering of the watch, it's links to a bygone era, and the fact it's a watch I can reasonably wear ...a lot make it fine for me. As always the case each will view it through different eyes.

22 December 2008, 11:07 AM	#3
Tools TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Larry Location: Mojave Desert Watch: GMT's Posts: 43,514	Great overview Mike.... Glad your wait is over..........congratulations.. __________________ (Chill ... It's just a watch Forum.....) NAWCC Member

23 December 2008, 11:33 AM	#4
mretzloff "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: USA Watch: Submariner Date Posts: 822	Nice review. It looks great on you. Out of curiosity, did you at first not like the DSSD or have you wanted one since its release? __________________ "M" 16610 Submariner "M" 16570w Explorer II

23 December 2008, 11:13 PM	#7
cully "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2007 Real Name: Paul Location: Lincolnshire UK Watch: SS Daytona Posts: 775	Congratulations, Mike It really fits you well in those pics. Wear it in good health Cheers Paul __________________

24 December 2008, 07:55 PM	#8
topcat30093 "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Tony Location: England Posts: 5,460	Beautiful photos,Mike __________________

22 December 2008, 10:57 AM	#2
werc1 Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Manhattan Posts: 22	wow, stunning watch. nice buy

23 December 2008, 07:42 PM	#6
mike "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 22,683	Thank you all for the wonderful comments. Sharing the experience is half the fun.

22 December 2008, 11:08 AM	#9
Gil F. Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Real Name: Gil Location: NC Watch: Sea-Dweller Posts: 432	Great review and pics ...congrats on a great addition to your collection!

22 December 2008, 11:10 AM	#10
Cato Banned Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Land of the Lost Watch: 116610LN Posts: 2,201	Now, that's a watch! I love the new bracelet.

22 December 2008, 11:14 AM	#11
Letsgodiving "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Mike Location: Virginia, US Watch: SD 16600 Posts: 4,319	I was wondering about this recently and looking forward to your take on things. Nice job and congrats! __________________ The fool, with all his other faults, has this also - he is always getting ready to live. - Epicurus (341–270 BC)

22 December 2008, 11:15 AM	#12
buz-lh "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Buz Location: Atlanta Watch: Rolex Tudor Pam Posts: 5,108	Congratulations Mike and thank you for your valued impressions and opinions regarding this watch. Interesting taking the diving link for more comfort and better fit. I wonder how many people actually use theirs. __________________ Buz The faster you move, the slower time passes, the longer you live. Peter Diamandis

22 December 2008, 11:16 AM	#13
Lol-x Facilitator Join Date: Nov 2005 Real Name: Steve Location: Omnipresent Posts: 33,588	Congrats mike, so does it feel heavy? That is my only concern. Thanks for the mini-review __________________ *Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.* ~Abraham Lincoln Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride. ~John F. Kennedy ROLEXploitation - yeah I'm a victim

22 December 2008, 11:20 AM	#14
1MAC "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Mike Location: Leawood, Kansas Watch: Submariner 16610 Posts: 854	Nice pics and a great review. Thanks and congratulations! __________________ Time wounds all heels.

22 December 2008, 11:23 AM	#16
onkyo Banned Join Date: Apr 2008 Real Name: Pav Location: Manhattan Posts: 11,495	Thank you for the excellent review and superb photos. It is truly a masterpiece and a must have for a collector! Wear it in the best of health

22 December 2008, 11:30 AM	#17
JohnEaton "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: John Eaton Location: Nome Alaska USA Watch: Red1680 metres 1st Posts: 1,869	Congrats Mike Doesn't it feel a bit light with the dive extension removed? __________________ Perfection lies not in the organic whole but in the isolated fragment

22 December 2008, 11:41 AM	#19
SSD "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Real Name: Jamie Location: Georgia Watch: Stainless Sub Date Posts: 3,023	Big congrats Mike, a great acquisition! I liked the Deep Sea the first time I saw one, and enjoyed the review and excellent photos as well. Your shots were superb as usual. I was surprised to see it fit so well on my wrists, they're about the same size as yours. I commented on this to Rawhyde, and he pointed out that if someone can wear a Tudor chrono, the DSSD will fit nicely as their dimensions are similar. Great post! __________________ SUBMARINER OWNERS' CLUB ESTABLISHED 1953 TRF Member # 5464

22 December 2008, 11:49 AM	#20
mailman TRF Moderator & SubLV41 2024 Patron Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: . Watch: 126610LN Posts: 35,510	Congratulations Mike Enjoy it in good health my friend __________________ JJ

22 December 2008, 12:00 PM	#21
JohnEaton "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: John Eaton Location: Nome Alaska USA Watch: Red1680 metres 1st Posts: 1,869	It's a DSSD, it's NOT "heavy" it has *presence, lots of presence... Mike, do you normally wear on your right wrist? __________________ Perfection lies not in the organic whole but in the isolated fragment*

22 December 2008, 12:11 PM	#23
kcmo "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Real Name: Karis Location: USA Posts: 19,377	Congrats Mike! Great analysis and pics! Enjoy it!

22 December 2008, 12:35 PM	#24
rxgremlin Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 79	That is excllent review and your photos are top notch. The best part for me is that for the first time I really got a sense of what this watch is all about. Your attention to detail is great. I never noticed the ticks on the bezel between the numbers (not just 0-15) or the Glidelock hang tag.Wear it proudly!

22 December 2008, 12:41 PM	#25
Dr.B "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Real Name: Fernando Location: North Carolina Watch: SS White Daytona Posts: 1,944	Wow, nice photos....and beautiful watch!

22 December 2008, 02:01 PM	#26
JF23 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: S Florida Posts: 1,899	Congrats on another beautiful watch Mike.

22 December 2008, 07:37 PM	#27
Trurolexer Banned Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: USA Watch: 5513MaxiI+PreComex Posts: 18,421	Finally...A Long Wait DSSD...HUGE CONGRATS, SIR!!!

23 December 2008, 04:52 AM	#28
haakon59 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Seattle Posts: 1,571	Congratulations. So you are finding the DSSD has better lume? At least it sounds like this is what you are saying. Regardless, I think it looks good on your wrist. And to think, it came in just in time for the holidays--how great was that!

23 December 2008, 06:30 AM	#29
Jocke 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Real Name: Jocke Location: Sweden Watch: A dozen of Rolex's Posts: 22,541	Congrats Mike. The extension link give the bracelet a cheap look so I just love when you took it off. I see the endlinks not fits the case perfect, I don't know why Rolex made them that way. So with your wrist now you know how an asian guy with a Panerai feels. Wear it in good health my friend. jocke __________________ This message is written in perfect swenglish. What is best a custom Rolex or a Rolex that is stuck in custom? Buy a professional camera and you´re a professional photographer, buy a flute and you own a flute.

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