ROLEX | SEA-DWELLER GREAT WHITE, REFERENCE 1665, STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH HELIUM ESCAPE VALVE DATE AND BRACELET, CIRCA 1978

In 1977, after ten years of the Double Red, Rolex introduced a new dial for its Sea-Dweller, today known as the Great White. This Sea-Dweller was still bearing the reference 1665 as its predecessor. However, it saw several changes. Firstly, Rolex omitted the ‘Submariner 2000’ signature on the dial, affirming the independence of this model from the Submariner branding. Secondly, the most noticeable change made was the writing on the dial now entirely white, hence its nickname, the ‘Great White’. Furthermore, the Rolex engraving on the outer case back moved from the centre to the inner circumference stating that this watch had the patented Rolex Gas Escape Valve.

The present lot was manufactured in around 1978 and is fitted with the Mark I dial which is distinguished by its two first lines of text lined up and the six in 610m which is open. The watch is presented on behalf of its original owner, retaining strong case proportions, with the dial with a light even patination throughout and original Guarantee, presentation case and documents, making this lot a particularly attractive piece.