Lot 129
  • 129

Rolex

Estimate
16,000 - 18,000 USD
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Description

  • A STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC SWEEP SECONDS WRISTWATCH WITH DATE, BRACELET CIRCA 1974 REF 1665 'DOUBLE-RED' SEA-DWELLER
  • diameter 39 mm
• cal. 1570 automatic movement, 26 jewels • black dial, aperture for date, Sea-Dweller Submariner 2000 printed in red • gas escape valve in the band, screw-down crown, screw back • case, dial and movement signed • stainless steel Rolex Oyster flip-lock bracelet

Condition

The movement is running, however it will need service soon as it has not been cleaned or adjusted in many years. When setting the time, the tube squeaks slightly as it is turned. It is numbered D080711. The dial appears to be in nice condition overall and appears to be a Mark IV dial. The case shows general wear and some minor pitting and scuffs throughout. The watch was worn extensively for diving and that shows. The crown does not screw down as far as it should and the threading will require service. The numbers between the lugs are 4190740 and 1665 and inside the back are also 4190740 and 1665. The bracelet is in worn condition and has an overall length of approximately 185mm.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Catalogue Note

In 1967, Rolex renumbered the Submariner Ref. 5514 as the Ref. 1665 and began to market it as the first Sea-Dweller model to amateur and hobbyist divers around the world. It featured a sturdier case and pressure-release valve in the side. It was ultimately tested and approved for depths down to 2000 feet, or roughly 610 meters.

The first generation of this reference featured 'Sea-Dweller Submariner 2000' in red printing. As these dials were in production for a limited period of time, they are much more collectible in the market today.

For a similar example of this model, Ref. 1665, see Skeet, M. & Urul, N., Vintage Rolex Sports Models, Second Edition, p. 112.