
Sea-Dweller 'Tropical', Reference 1665 | A stainless steel wristwatch with date, helium escape valve, tropical dial and bracelet | Circa 1971
Auction Closed
May 12, 11:39 AM GMT
Estimate
100,000 - 200,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Dial: tropical
Calibre: cal. 1570 automatic, 26 jewels
Movement number: D’804’035
Case: stainless steel, screw-down case back
Case number: 2’665’630
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Size: 40 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 205 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: yes
Papers: yes
Accessories: Rolex Guarantee booklet, Attestation de Chronomètre Officiel, product literature, service card dated November 1999, document holder and presentation case with outer packaging
The Rolex Sea-Dweller Reference 1665 stands as a testament to Rolex's commitment to excellence in professional dive watches. Introduced in 1967, this legendary timepiece was developed in collaboration with COMEX, the French deep-sea diving specialists, to meet the demanding requirements of saturation divers operating in extreme underwater environments.
The Sea-Dweller 1665 is distinguished by its robust stainless steel case, helium escape valve, and iconic domed crystal, which ensures optimal legibility and durability in the depths of the ocean. What sets this particular model apart is its rare and coveted "Tropical" dial, where the black dial has aged gracefully over the years, transforming into a rich and warm chocolate brown hue. This unique patina adds plenty of character and charm to the watch. Furthermore, this watch comes with a wide array of original accessories, including its guarantee booklet, Attestation de Chronometre Officiel, product literature, service card dated November 1999, document holder and presentation case with outer packaging.
Known to collectors as the "Double Red," the Sea-Dweller 1665 earns its nickname from the two lines of red text on its dial, notably the "Sea-Dweller" and "Submariner 2000" markings. Its iconic appearance, coupled with its historical significance and rarity, makes it a prized possession for discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This Rolex 1665 is featured in “A Journey Into the Deep” by John Goldberger and Daniel Bourn, pp. 48-49.