The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a watch synonymous with professional diving and unparalleled robustness, boasts a rich history marked by iconic variations. Among these, the 1665 Double Red Sea-Dweller stands as perhaps the most sought-after and legendary. Its simple yet striking red text on the dial, coupled with its robust construction and connection to a golden age of diving exploration, has cemented its place in horological history and made it a highly prized collector's item. This article delves into the fascinating world of the 1665 Double Red Sea-Dweller, exploring its distinctive features, its place within the broader Sea-Dweller lineage, and its remarkable value in today's market. We'll also touch upon related models, such as the Rolex Submariner Double Red, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this coveted piece.
The 1665 Double Red Sea-Dweller: A Legend Forged in the Depths
The reference 1665 Sea-Dweller, introduced in 1967, was a significant advancement in diving watch technology. Designed for professional saturation divers, it offered increased water resistance compared to its Submariner counterpart, boasting a depth rating of 610 meters (2000 feet). But it was a specific variation of this reference – the "Double Red" – that would capture the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts for decades to come. The defining feature, as the name suggests, is the bold red text on the dial, reading "SEA-DWELLER" and "2000ft=610m". This stark red contrasted sharply with the black dial, creating a visually arresting design that remains instantly recognizable today.
The Double Red's production was relatively short-lived, lasting only a few years. This limited production run, coupled with its inherent durability and its appeal to a growing community of watch collectors, has contributed significantly to its current rarity and high value. Finding an authentic example in pristine condition is a true feat, with prices reaching astronomical figures. The condition of the dial is paramount; "tropical" dials, which have aged and developed a unique patina, often command even higher prices. These variations in color, often a rich brown or even a faded reddish-brown, are a testament to the watch's age and exposure to environmental factors, adding to its allure and historical significance. The terms "Tropical Mark II Patent Pending," or "PPDRSD" (for "Patent Pending Double Red Sea-Dweller") often appear in descriptions of these highly desirable watches, indicating specific variations within the Double Red family. The "thin case" variation, as mentioned in the provided examples (1665 Double Red Sea Dweller, Mark II Tropical Dial, Thin Case -SOLD), refers to subtle differences in the case construction, further adding to the complexity and desirability of these timepieces.
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