
Sharon Chan
Head of department, Director of Watches, Asia
Sold for HK$165,000 inc. premium
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Find your local specialistHead of department, Director of Watches, Asia
勞力士,「Sea-Dweller」1665型號 深潛白字 "路軌" 錶盤,精鋼自動上弦鏈帶腕錶,配日期顯示,年份約1980。
As the famous "Double Red" Sea Dweller, the nickname "Great White" comes from the dial. In 1977, Rolex decided to cease the production of "Double Red" and issued another version of Ref. 1665. The red lines from "Double Red" models are now printed in white. In addition, the "Great White" does not have the word "Submariner 2000" on the dial. It is thus considered an important model as it represents a separation between Submariner and Sea-Dweller.
During the seven years of its production, there were five different dial variations made, and they have been categorised by collectors as Mark 0 to Mark 4. Amongst the five, Mark 2 (as the present watch) is arguably the most desirable. It has the so-called "Rail dial", which indicates the "C" of Chronometer lines up with the "C" of Certified below. And it is the only version of the Sea-Dweller marked "T SWISS T 25" at 6 o'clock. This "Rail dials" were made by the Stern Company who produced the COMEX Ref. 1665 Dials for just 2 years, making this variant rare and sought after. With a nicely preserved condition and attractive patina to the lume dots, the present example will certainly be a treasure in the market.