Did Rolex lose it's soul with the 43mm Sea Dweller?

[djgallo]

Originally Posted by GoingPlaces

I think this is really a gold vs ss issue. Does gold react differently when you deep dive? I doubt it, so this is really a “why would someone go diving with a gold (TT) watch”? Which brings us back to why does Rolex make a gold sub?

Some people may want to go diving wearing a gold watch. Nothing wrong with that.


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I agree with your point.

I addition, a few people get so hung up on the past, and they can’t except change...so now we have the SD43 TT....they freak out! So Rolex should never change the SD because of a few so called diehards can’t deal with it??

Yeah the SD went up from 40mm to 43, and 44mm. That is the current trend, watches are getting bigger....I think the sub will eventually follow suit.

So now there are (4) new SD’s to choose from....it’s a little bit for everyone, including some gold on the SD for some folks. Rolex leads....

[Mystro]

As a reference I wore a TT Bluesy for 8 years everyday and it went on over 100 dives. It worked flawlessly simply because the metal makes zero difference on its function as a dive watch. If anything, gold is even more ideal in corrosive environments.

[sokoloka]

Not at all - depends on your perspective however. SD43 is the first Rolex that really grabbed my attention as something I would want to have on my wrist.

Bought one shortly thereafter!

[jkap2323]

I feel that the move to 43 was a great choice to have more separation between the sub and the SD. There are people out there with wrists that can support watches larger than 42mm and personally it’s nice to have options within the brand. The older 40mm sea dwellers looked like a hockey puck on wrist and it is a change that I welcomed. These are tool watches but they are also luxury timepieces. While I don’t love the two tone, I do understand why people would purchase. More options are never a bad thing if done tastefully.


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[Centron]

No.
Rolex made it better and more distinct from the Submariner. 25 years ago I bought a submariner over the seadweller as I just couldn't justify the large price difference between them as they were so similar in appearance and size.

Now, it’s Rolex’s best diver ever in my opinion. And I couldn’t throw them my money fast enough. Movement, materials, bracelet, proportions, and that red line is icing on the cake. It stands on its own and will have lasting impact.

[Jason71]

Originally Posted by scubadds

Curious if you also use a dive computer when you dive?

I stopped wearing my sub 15 years ago; but have also have had a brand new dive computer die on me mid-dive;
Now I use two computers; but year-year the batteries become issues.....

The reason I dive my Rolex as my primary dive timer and a digital gauge / timer as a backup. I travel with two Rolex divers just in the rare instance of a water ingress issue. I’ve never had a Rolex fail on a dive. A computer? More than once.

[Jason71]

Originally Posted by Mystro

As a reference I wore a TT Bluesy for 8 years everyday and it went on over 100 dives. It worked flawlessly simply because the metal makes zero difference on its function as a dive watch. If anything, gold is even more ideal in corrosive environments.

Agreed. If my budget would allow it, I would dive a solid gold Rolex on a strap.

[Sublovin]

Originally Posted by subdateII

The professional line has always evolved driven by innovation. Here is my grip with this version:

1. The increase in size from 40mm did not come with any increase in performance. The watch is still rated for 4,000 feet.

2. I don't understand the addition of the two tone version in 2019 for such a technically capable watch.

You forgot the addition of a cyclops. Definitely the most “fashion” Sea Dweller

[007_Omega]

Originally Posted by Rashid.bk

Yes, 40mm was classic and perfect.
And no, the 43mm is just as beautiful. The only concern I really see is that the case back protrudes a little and can be a bit uncomfortable. If I honestly liked it before, I still like it today.

They did it so it looks thinner than it actually is and it works, thus why so many people enjoy this watch as a daily. Totally an aesthetic decision. I find flat casebacks more comfortable as well. The GMT disappears on my wrist.

I got the opportunity to try the SD4K on for the first time last week. Honestly, the SD43 is better proportioned and the better watch. Also, people on the forums constantly talk about the SD4K watch having traditional lugs but actually they are slimmed down lugs from the ill-proportioned Sub but they aren't nearly as tapered as the SD43 or others.

Considering this watch is no longer a true professional tool watch, even if it was the increased dial/bezel size would be a purposeful function and useful, the 43 makes a lot of sense.

I am going to venture the OP got this thought from IDGuy's video. I really enjoy his vids but I'll disagree with him here.

The SD43 is the best diver Rolex makes, plain and simple. I've tried them all. I'm not a fan of the cyclops; I see it as a move to push the watch into the "big Sub" category but that aside Rolex nailed the watch. The size is deceiving. The deepsea is an oversized watch. The SD43 works on pretty much any guy's wrist.

EDIT: Would like to add another point. At least with the SD43, Rolex put two feet forward rather than trying to play it both progressive and conservative like they did with the Sub-C. They increased the size of the bracelet to 22mm and actually increased the size of the watch, while bringing back classic lugs. Unlike the mistakes with the Sub-C, dramatically increased lug size to make it appear a lot bigger than a classic 40 while keeping a 20mm bracelet on a watch that was now much wider. If anything, the Sub-C deserves the criticism that the SD43 gets from its haters. Even the Deepsea increased the size by virtue of it being a technical wonder. The Sub-C is still a 300m water resistant watch that didn't know where it fit in a world that increasingly moved towards big watches.

Anyway, my rant over. I have no bias in this game. I don't any of these watches anymore so I am just giving my unbiased opinion.

[Brian Page]

Originally Posted by Jason71

The reason I dive my Rolex as my primary dive timer and a digital gauge / timer as a backup. I travel with two Rolex divers just in the rare instance of a water ingress issue. I’ve never had a Rolex fail on a dive. A computer? More than once.

Isn't that the truth...

[GoingPlaces]

Originally Posted by 007_Omega

They did it so it looks thinner than it actually is and it works, thus why so many people enjoy this watch as a daily. Totally an aesthetic decision. I find flat casebacks more comfortable as well. The GMT disappears on my wrist.

I got the opportunity to try the SD4K on for the first time last week. Honestly, the SD43 is better proportioned and the better watch. Also, people on the forums constantly talk about the SD4K watch having traditional lugs but actually they are slimmed down lugs from the ill-proportioned Sub but they aren't nearly as tapered as the SD43 or others.

Considering this watch is no longer a true professional tool watch, even if it was the increased dial/bezel size would be a purposeful function and useful, the 43 makes a lot of sense.

I am going to venture the OP got this thought from IDGuy's video. I really enjoy his vids but I'll disagree with him here.

The SD43 is the best diver Rolex makes, plain and simple. I've tried them all. I'm not a fan of the cyclops; I see it as a move to push the watch into the "big Sub" category but that aside Rolex nailed the watch. The size is deceiving. The deepsea is an oversized watch. The SD43 works on pretty much any guy's wrist.

EDIT: Would like to add another point. At least with the SD43, Rolex put two feet forward rather than trying to play it both progressive and conservative like they did with the Sub-C. They increased the size of the bracelet to 22mm and actually increased the size of the watch, while bringing back classic lugs. Unlike the mistakes with the Sub-C, dramatically increased lug size to make it appear a lot bigger than a classic 40 while keeping a 20mm bracelet on a watch that was now much wider. If anything, the Sub-C deserves the criticism that the SD43 gets from its haters. Even the Deepsea increased the size by virtue of it being a technical wonder. The Sub-C is still a 300m water resistance watch that didn't knew where it fit in a world that increasingly moved towards big watches.

Anyway, my rant over. I have no bias in this game. I don't any of these watches anymore so I am just giving my unbiased opinion.

Great insight. Thank you.


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[inadeje]

The SD 43 is not a large watch by any margin. It does sit slightly higher than a 40mm sub but the difference is negligible. As I own larger watches, the size is irrelevant to me. Frankly it doesn’t feel much different to my smurf and is less bulky than the YMII. It weighs less than both.

[Chewbacca]

Rolex is an enigma that makes good watches.

We should stop thinking its a rational, predictable or genuinely nostalgic entity -- beyond the marketing efforts of course.

[NineToes]

I like both. I have no issues with them.

[EndlessEight]

Originally Posted by abozz

I LOVE Rolex because are badass/elegant sport watches with tool features and a lifespan realiability, and my grail is the SD43, the best diver ever made (I.M. may be not humble O.).

My answer is: NO


The SD43 is the best representation of the modern Rolex soul.

The SD43 is better than the current iteration of the Sub.

Now, if Rolex updates the Sub and slims the lugs in the process, it will be a different story.

[subdateII]

Originally Posted by Sublovin

You forgot the addition of a cyclops. Definitely the most “fashion” Sea Dweller

100% correct. The addition of the cyclop lens is a departure from the Sea Dweller lineage.

According to this source (https://monochrome-watches.com/the-r...yclops-lens/):

"Rolex explained to us that, if the Sea-Dweller wasn’t equipped with a Cyclops in the past for technical reasons (due to the domed shape of the crystal and issues with the high pressure on the watch at great depths), it was now possible to have such a magnifier on the SD… “

[VICI]

I absolutely love mine and find myself wearing it much more often than other pieces.

[007_Omega]

Originally Posted by EndlessEight

The SD43 is better than the current iteration of the Sub.

Now, if Rolex updates the Sub and slims the lugs in the process, it will be a different story.

Rolex is in a bit of conundrum with that, well sort of because they are basically printing money at this point. If they reduce the lugs to SD43 levels, it'll be an acknowledgement that the Sub-C was a mistake or at least a watch that was totally designed for the big watch era.

Rolex will more likely slightly slim the lugs, a la the GMTs, and call it day. If Rolex gives the watch a 21mm bracelet with slightly trimmed lugs, it'll fix its proportions. Will Rolex give up the purity of the 40mm/20mm ratio though? Another direction would be to simply give in and increase the size of the watch. With the SD43 in the lineup, that seems unlikely but there is precedence. The Sub used to be 38mm so it has not always been a 40mm watch like people claim.

I think most people are in agreement that Rolex will simply add the new movement, slightly alter the dial with the crown between swiss made/possible small font alterations, slightly trim down the lugs, and keep the 40/20mm ratio. It'll sell out and will not stir the pot so to speak.

For the record, I completely acknowledge that there are plenty of "fat lug" Submariner fans but my theory, based on talking to a lot of people about the issue, is that they simply like the added presence and perceived size. So if they want to cater to that crowd, just make the watch bigger. I guess that was the SD43's place but again I think the Submariner name is the crown jewel of Rolex. People go in wanting a Sub.

[Smarties]

Making a 43mm case answers the needs of people who prefer larger watch. Personally I prefer it stays at 40mm. But adding the cyclops really depart from the tradition of Sea Dweller lineage.....I much prefer SD50 with cyclops. And a TT version?.....does not appeal to me at all....

[Nikrnic]

After reading hundreds of posts about SeaDwellers my mind is made up. When I buy my first and most likely only one version it will be the SD4K

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[akilis]

Originally Posted by subdateII

The professional line has always evolved driven by innovation. Here is my grip with this version:

1. The increase in size from 40mm did not come with any increase in performance. The watch is still rated for 4,000 feet.

2. I don't understand the addition of the two tone version in 2019 for such a technically capable watch.

I had one before...sold it. simply it's too big for me

[No SUBctitute]

Originally Posted by Jason71

The reason I dive my Rolex as my primary dive timer and a digital gauge / timer as a backup. I travel with two Rolex divers just in the rare instance of a water ingress issue. I’ve never had a Rolex fail on a dive. A computer? More than once.

I like the way you think!

When I went diving several months ago, upon descent I rotated my bezel to keep track of how long I was down. As I was rotating my bezel I felt a gaze. I looked up and saw the dive instructor--with computer strapped to her wrist--glaring at me like I was nuts.

[Smarties]

Originally Posted by Smarties

Making a 43mm case answers the needs of people who prefer larger watch. Personally I prefer it stays at 40mm. But adding the cyclops really depart from the tradition of Sea Dweller lineage.....I much prefer SD50 with cyclops. And a TT version?.....does not appeal to me at all....

Sorry....typo. Wanted to say I prefer SD50 without cyclops.

[singe89]

The deepsea is the closest thing Rolex has to a purpose built dive/tool watch. The current evolution of the original seadweller. Sub is still a classic and SD43 has no technical significance anymore. Just fits in between for wrist size and personal preference. The TT in a once ultimate tool watch just shows these watches drifting further from their roots. I have a hard time buying PM rolexes because I want them to still be that tool watch but at the same time totally want a Pt DSSD.

[Verdi]

Loosing soul? Yes, but Rolex does not seem to care much about it anymore. It is about marketing, more money!

Many people out there complained that Sub, SD, GMT are too small, especially when the hype of bigger watches started.

So, Rolex made a compromise. They choose not too touch the Sub and the GMT but sacrificed the Explorer 2, the DD and the SD. They created the Deepsea.
They, also, had the DJ2 flop when they got it all wrong with the size. The DJ was bigger than a Sub.....talking about sport models and their purpose. They realised that and rectified it as fast as possible.
They made them bigger and, yes, they kind of lost soul for me, the wis. But, for others it is the perfect watch because they simply want a bigger watch. It is just about catering for everyone.


A diver watch in gold?
Sub, SD make no sense to me in pm and pls dont feel offended if you have one. Its just the way I see it. There is a contradiction of terms between words like sea-dweller/submariner/4000feet/depth and gold......unless you search for shipwrecks full of treasures.
PM and 2 tone divers only make sense for marketing. They bring a lot of money to Rolex and if people out there want to buy them....Rolex shall deliver.

[Swiss Mad!]

Originally Posted by subdateII

The Submariner only exists in stainless steel. It is the Submariner Date that exists in PM.

Ok - fair point.

So then your comment got me thinking about the Deep Sea.

Surely that should be considered the ultimate dive watch which is also only available in SS?

But then does this mean Rolex lost their way when they introduced the James Cameron version as this must surely then relegate it to ‘fashion watch’ status????

My head hurts ......


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[BT1985]

Originally Posted by brandrea

It's an abomination

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I’m going to start overtly replicating all your wrist shots now.....


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[Wcdhtwn]

Is the new movement not innovation?

If you don’t like it then don’t buy it.

Did Rolex lose it’s soul? Jeez, drama much?

[Boaters]

Originally Posted by abozz

I LOVE Rolex because are badass/elegant sport watches with tool features and a lifespan realiability, and my grail is the SD43, the best diver ever made (I.M. may be not humble O.).

My answer is: NO


The SD43 is the best representation of the modern Rolex soul.

Well said

[brucethemanlee]

Originally Posted by subdateII

The professional line has always evolved driven by innovation. Here is my grip with this version:



1. The increase in size from 40mm did not come with any increase in performance. The watch is still rated for 4,000 feet.



2. I don't understand the addition of the two tone version in 2019 for such a technically capable watch.

Perhaps but 99% of the people buying the watch are not using the sea dweller for its intended purpose: DIVING.
Most people/ buyers if they’re lucky might go swimming in a pool 8feet deep with a drink on the otherwise but the watch is rated to 4000 feet.

New SD list soul with TT? Yeah but people having strawberry drinks with SD at edge of pool might be sacrilege ;)


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