Just picked up an old Sea-Dweller SD4K

[mosfetaus]

My Rolex collection consisted of a DJ 116200, Sub 14060M and Exp 114270
I'd been wanting to get a ceramic Sub/Sea-Dweller for years, but the opportunity never arose (the damn things never sell cheap ). I'd actually never even seen a SubC, or SDc in the metal. I've always bought my pieces pre-loved and the only time I've ever set foot into an AD was when I had to take my pre-owned Panerai in for warranty service.
But my endless hours scouring eBay, online pre-owned dealers and the forums always pays off, and I always get what I'm after... eventually.
So I picked up my C-Dweller on Friday and have had the weekend to bond with it. I've never had instant bonding with any Rolex I've bought and I think it's really just because their designs are so well known (to watch lovers) that even when I get a new one, it seems "familiar". But the proof of their substance is that of all the brands I've constantly flipped, I've only ever re-sold one Rolex (and it was only because it was the same model DJ as I had, but just a different dial).
Here're my initial thoughts of the SD40C...
- I'd read so much about the shininess of the ceramic bezels, that I thought it would be a put off. But in reality, it's actually quite subtle. Almost appears grey a lot of the time. I find it quite subdued and am really happy with it.
- At first I thought it was uncomfortable and I couldn't get the right fit. How ironic is that, considering it's awesome adjustable clasp?! Then I fully realized the power of Glidelock - I adjusted it snug (not too tight, not too loose), and it is supremely comfortable. Although it's obviously a big heavy case, I find that it's not too thick at all, and it fits frigging perfectly! In all my years of lusting after a SubC/SD, I actually thought I'd prefer the vertically chunkier SD case over the thinner Sub, and in reality, I do. Even the once controversial raised edges of the end links. It's really got character this thing.
- Being my first Chomalight watch, I was very curious to see how it performs. And my verdict is- it's very cool to see blue rather than the ubiquitous green, it's not as bright a lume's found on Omega or Seiko etc, but its staying power is good, although not streets ahead.
- I love owning a Rolex with some text on the case back, a very rare thing.
- It's super cool to own the last 40mm Sea-Dweller with all of the big R's tech bells and wistles.
- And finally, I am never going to sell it!

I really don't think Rolex will bring the SD back in this form, at least not for a very long time. Despite its history, the reality is that it really is too close to a Sub to allow it to have a strong market. Whereas now we have the 40mm Sub, then the 43mm SD with a hot bit of colour on the dial and retaining Rolex's beloved cyclops, then the uber bad a@# Deep Sea, so I think more sales are assured.

Thanks for reading my dribble, and here's my baby!..