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Rolex and James Cameron Introduce the Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge March 21, 2023 (0 comments)
Geneva, Switzerland--Luxury watchmaker Rolex has partnered with renowned filmmaker and deep-sea explorer James Cameron to unveil the Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge. This new timepiece is inspired by the experimental watch accompanying Cameron on his historic 10,908-meter descent into the Mariana Trench in 2012.
According to a report, the Deepsea Challenge, designed for wrist wear, boasts an impressive waterproof depth of 11,000 meters, thanks to its construction from RLX titanium, a grade 5 titanium alloy Rolex chose. This material makes the watch 30% lighter than the experimental model used in 2012. The timepiece is engineered to withstand extreme pressure, making it suitable for various underwater environments, from freediving to submersible dives to hyperbaric chambers.
Rolex devoted years of research to overcome the watchmaking and manufacturing challenges posed by the Deepsea Challenge. From its 50mm case to the bracelet, every aspect of this timepiece incorporates Rolex's expertise in divers' watches. The watch features a slimmed-down crystal and a satin finish with a distinct grain.
Incorporating several Rolex innovations, the Deepsea Challenge includes the patented Ringlock system, helium escape valve, Triplock crown with three sealed zones, and Chromalight display for exceptional legibility. Rolex's Glidelock and Fliplock extension link systems enable the watch to be worn over a diving suit up to 7mm thick.
Powered by the advanced caliber 3230 movements developed and manufactured by Rolex, the Deepsea Challenge offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. It carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, ensuring chronometric precision of -2 /+2 seconds daily.
The Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge pays homage to historic ocean explorations, with the words "Mariana Trench" and the dates "23-01-1960" and "26-03-2012" engraved on the case back. These inscriptions honor Jacques Piccard and US Navy Lieutenant Don Walsh's 1960 dive aboard the Trieste and James Cameron's solo descent in 2012.
Learn more in this report.
[Images via Rolex]