When you think of a robust, durable diving watch, the Rolex Deepsea likely comes to mind. But there’s one question that stands out for many: just how thick is the Rolex Deepsea?
If you’re fascinated by the mechanics of this impressive timepiece, you’ll want to dive deep into its details.
After all, the Deepsea isn’t just any watch—it’s designed to survive some of the most extreme underwater conditions known to man. But does all that durability add a lot of bulk? Let’s find out.
The Dimensions of the Rolex Deepsea
The Rolex Deepsea, part of the renowned Rolex Sea-Dweller collection, is famous for its ability to withstand great depths.
This diving watch is water-resistant to a staggering depth of 3,900 metres (12,800 feet). To handle such extreme conditions, the Deepsea needs to be thicker than your average watch, which is where its unique appeal comes in.
The Rolex Deepsea measures 17.7 mm in thickness. It’s nearly 18 millimetres of solid engineering.
For context, most standard wristwatches come in at around 8 to 12 mm thick, so the Deepsea’s additional thickness is definitely noticeable, but it’s not without reason.
Why is the Rolex Deepsea So Thick?
The answer lies in the extreme conditions it’s designed to handle. The Deepsea is engineered to be a tool for professional divers, specifically to survive the immense pressure found at thousands of metres below the sea’s surface.
The key feature that adds to its thickness is the Ringlock System—a specialised case architecture developed by Rolex. This system uses a combination of materials to protect the movement inside the watch from the pressure exerted by the water.
There’s a nitrogen-alloyed stainless steel central ring, a sapphire crystal that is 5.5 mm thick, and a titanium case back. Together, these components allow the Deepsea to withstand pressures that would crush most other watches.
Does the Thickness Affect Comfort?
Rolex has designed the Deepsea to balance comfort and function. Thanks to its relatively lightweight titanium case back, the watch doesn’t feel as heavy as its dimensions might suggest.
The watch is fitted with Rolex’s Oyster bracelet, which has a Glidelock clasp. This feature allows you to adjust the bracelet without the need for tools, so you can find the perfect fit, even when wearing it over a diving suit.
⌚️ More information: How To Figure Out Your Watch Size.
The Trade-Off Between Thickness and Functionality
One of the biggest questions potential buyers face is whether they’re willing to trade off a little comfort for functionality. While the Rolex Deepsea is undoubtedly thicker than most luxury watches, it’s important to remember that it’s not designed for everyday office wear.
This is a timepiece for professional divers, adventurers, and anyone who needs a watch that can handle extreme environments. If you’re looking for a slim, sleek watch to wear under a cuff, the Deepsea might not be your best choice.
But if you appreciate a watch with serious engineering behind it—one that has been tested in the harshest conditions—the extra thickness is more of an advantage than a drawback. In fact, the thickness becomes a badge of honour for those who recognise the watch’s capabilities.
How Does the Rolex Deepsea Compare to Other Diving Watches?
If you’re comparing the Rolex Deepsea to other diving watches, its thickness is one of the features that sets it apart. For example, the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, another popular choice among divers, has a thickness of around 16 mm.
While it’s slightly slimmer than the Deepsea, it also has a lower depth rating, at 600 metres compared to the Deepsea’s 3,900 metres. While both are incredibly durable watches, the extra thickness of the Deepsea reflects its superior depth capabilities.
Should You Choose the Rolex Deepsea?
If you’re in the market for a diving watch, the Rolex Deepsea stands out not just for its thickness but for the incredible engineering behind that extra bulk. Whether you’re a professional diver, an enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the craftsmanship, this is a watch that delivers performance and reliability.
However, it’s essential to ask yourself if the thickness and design align with your needs. If you want a watch that can handle the most extreme conditions while still maintaining a sense of luxury and prestige, the Deepsea is the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you’re after something more suited for everyday wear, you might want to consider a thinner model.
Final Word
The Rolex Deepsea is more than just a thick watch—it’s a marvel of engineering designed to withstand the harshest underwater environments.
At 17.7 mm thick, it might not be for everyone, but for those who need—or simply admire—its rugged durability and outstanding craftsmanship, the Deepsea is an unrivalled choice. While the thickness is noticeable, it’s a necessary feature that ensures this watch can perform at the highest level.
