Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller 116660 'James Cameron' Blue Dial (2017)

The Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller 116660 “James Cameron” is one of the most celebrated tool watches in the brand’s modern lineup, created to honor filmmaker and explorer James Cameron’s historic 2012 solo dive to the Mariana Trench. This special edition set itself apart from the standard Deepsea by introducing a unique gradient dial—fading from deep blue to pitch black—as a tribute to the descent into Earth’s deepest ocean point.

This reference maintains the imposing 44mm stainless steel case and 17.7mm thickness, both necessary to accommodate the proprietary Ringlock System that enables water resistance to an extraordinary 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). Despite its extreme capabilities, Rolex ensured the watch remained wearable, with a tapered Oyster bracelet featuring the Glidelock extension system and Fliplock dive extension for over-the-suit adjustments.

The dial features bright white Chromalight markers and hands for optimal legibility in darkness, but it’s the bold green “DEEPSEA” text that sets it apart—mimicking the color of Cameron’s submersible. This detail, alongside the gradient dial and commemorative intent, instantly made the watch a collector’s piece, affectionately nicknamed the “James Cameron” within the watch community.

Powered by the robust caliber 3135, the 116660 delivers rock-solid accuracy and durability. It was eventually succeeded by the 126660, which brought movement and case refinements, but the original 116660 James Cameron remains the first and most iconic expression of this tribute. For collectors, it represents the intersection of horological engineering and real-world exploration, packaged in one of the most capable mechanical dive watches ever built.