Rolex

The Rolex Sea-Dweller COMEX, Reference 1665, holds a unique place in horological history due to its fascinating origins and distinctive features.

Emerging during the 1960s and 1970s, the growth of industrial scuba diving created a demand for specialised equipment, and watches became indispensable tools for professional divers. Rolex, in collaboration with Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises (COMEX) based in Marseille, France, embarked on a journey of innovation to create timepieces capable of resisting to the challenges of deep-sea exploration.

A few Rolex Sea-Dweller Reference 1665, produced between 1977 and 1981, stands out with their boldly printed COMEX logo above the Sea-Dweller signature, signifying their connection to this renowned French diving company. Notably, these watches were not available to the public, only issued to professional divers, reflecting their essential role in the underwater operations.

Furthermore, the Sea-Dweller 1665, the first Sea-Dweller reference, includes a helium escape valve, this valve allows helium molecules that may accumulate in the watch during deep-sea saturation dives to safely escape without damaging the watch's crystal. It is a crucial feature for professional divers. It was developed a few years earlier by Rolex, still in connection with the Comex as they tested this feature on the Reference 5514, a reference only produced for Comex divers.

This timepiece of historical significance, preserved in attractive condition, is a highly coveted collector's piece, representing a remarkable era of innovation and collaboration in the world of professional diving watches.