Anyone else still uneasy about the two-tone Sea-Dweller (126603) as a “professional” instrument? Not another “tool vs jewelry” rant-I’m after hard data. I’ve worn and serviced enough modern Rolex to know the materials are robust, but the combo of 904L and 18k on a saturation-rated piece raises questions I haven’t seen answered with evidence.
Galvanic behavior in saltwater: Has anyone done actual immersion testing of 904L steel components directly adjacent to 18k yellow gold under saltwater cycles? I’m talking long-term: soak, dry, heat, repeat. Any micro-pitting or accelerated crevice corrosion on steel next to the gold center links, crown tube area, clasp plates, or bezel assembly? Lab data or macro photos beat anecdotes.
Bracelet longevity and “stretch”: Modern solid-link two-tone bracelets are better than the hollow-link days, but gold is still softer. Owners with 2-5 years of regular wear-do you see earlier hinge wear or lateral play vs full steel SD/Sub? Macro shots of center link shoulders and pin bores would be useful.
Bezel knurling wear: Is the 18k bezel ring’s grip rounding faster than steel or ceramic-ringed pro models, especially with glove use? Any photos after repeated dive trips or rough use?
Underwater mass and ergonomics: The TT SD is already hefty. Does the extra gold shift balance enough to affect comfort or strap choice over a thick wetsuit? Anyone measured apparent weight in water vs steel SD/TT Sub and noticed clasp loosening or screw creep over time?
Service policy and parts: First-hand RSC experiences only, please. Cost deltas for replacing worn gold center links/crowns/bezels? Any refusals to swap to steel parts for “de-TT” at service (I assume no, but has anyone tried)? Does RSC refinish gold differently to preserve geometry?
Market dynamics and lifespan: ADs-does the TT SD cannibalize TT Sub 41 demand or is it a distinct buyer? If Rolex trims SKUs, is this the one to go? Historically, short-run “contradiction” references can age oddly-any data points, not hype.
If you own a 126603, a microscope and a caliper would make you the hero of this thread. Close-ups of wear points, saltwater exposure logs, and post-service measurements welcome. Watchmakers and materials folks: tear down insights on the crown tube, valve interface, and clasp internals would be gold here (pun intended).