ROLEX SCALE MODELS
Several scale models of the Deep Sea Challenger, and its predecessor the Trieste, were commissioned by Rolex of Geneva and produced by i + i design as part of a worldwide exhibition demonstrating Rolex’s commitment to exploration.
These models were designed to portray a faithful scale reproduction of the original vessels and involved extensive research and design, working with some of the original 3D engineering files as well as detailed measurements and photographs from the real submersibles. One such research trip included a visit to James Cameron’s Ranch in California, where the Deep Sea Challenger was kept at the time. Detail photographs and measurements that had been previously unavailable were taken for the final versions. The original 1:20 models was fabricated with CNC routers and 3D printers and finished by hand. Another exhibition came five years later and reproductions to 1:40 scale were requested. To finalize the project, a 1:20 scale model of each where requested for a new Rolex shop in California.
