ROLEX | SEA-DWELLER DOUBLE RED, REFERENCE 1665 STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH DATE, HELIUM ESCAPE VALVE AND BRACELETCIRCA 1973

Dial: black Calibre: cal. 1570 automatic, 26 jewels Movement number: D’288’682 Case: stainless steel Oyster, screw-down crown and back Case number: 3’520’752 Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with integrated folding claspDimensions: 40mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 185mmSigned: case, dial and movement Accessories: Rolex service booklet and card, suede travel pouch

Rolex officially launched the first version of the Sea Dweller reference 1665 in 1967. The highly technical diving watch was specifically engineered to sustain extreme depths. The helium escape valve was revolutionary as it allowed the accumulated helium to be released out of the case without harming the movement or dislocating the plexiglass. The reference 1665 was first produced in quite limited numbers and offered a 500m water resistance. The now iconic Double Red variant followed suit, bearing the ‘SEA-DWELLER’ and ‘SUBMARINER 2000’ text spread on two red lines.

Collectors have identified four main evolutions until 1977.

This lot is fitted with its original Mark III dial distinguished by the lining up of the 'D' of 'Sea-Dweller' and the 'R' of 'Submariner. The writing has a thinner font and has an open '6' for the meter depth. The indexes have aged to an attractive ivory patina. Furthermore, this watch has its original case back with the 3 last case number digits engraved on the inside.

This watch is presented on behalf of the family of the original owner.