Superb 1975 Rolex “Double Red” Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 – Mark IV Dial

Instantly recognizable, the Rolex “Double Red Sea-Dweller” is one of the most celebrated diving watches ever produced.
Developed from the late 1960s to meet the needs of professional divers working at great depths, this watch is equipped with a helium escape valve, a revolutionary innovation from Rolex allowing it to better withstand the stresses of saturation diving.
We are pleased to present here a superb example of the Rolex “Double Red” Sea-Dweller reference 1665, produced in 1975 (serial number 403xxxx), equipped with a “Mark IV” dial whose luminescent indexes (tritium base) have developed a magnificent orange patina, warm and uniform, like the 3 hands and the pearl in the triangle of the bezel insert.
The remarkably well-preserved 40mm stainless steel case is closed by a caseback featuring the full serial number engraved inside, and topped with a “Superdome” plexiglass crystal, adding to the unmistakable vintage charm of the whole.
The self-winding mechanical movement that powers this watch, Rolex caliber 1575, chronometer-certified, is renowned for its reliability and precision and has been fully serviced by one of our watchmakers specializing in vintage Rolex calibers.

The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 1665, nicknamed the "Double Red" or "DRSD" for its instantly recognizable two lines of red text on the dial, is one of the most famous and celebrated dive watches ever produced. Developed from the late 1960s to meet the needs of professional divers working at great depths, this watch is equipped with a helium escape valve, a revolutionary Rolex innovation that better withstands the stresses of saturation diving.

Reference 1665 is the first in the Sea-Dweller line. Produced between 1967 and 1983, this icon of diving watchmaking underwent several evolutions over its 16-year presence in the Rolex catalog. Not counting the prototypes, there are at least 12 dials designed for this reference, including 7 "Double Reds" and 5 known as the "Great Whites."

Produced in 1975, our example is equipped with a Mark IV dial, in perfect consistency with its serial number (403xxxx). This dial variant, the last “Double Red” fitted as standard by Rolex, is recognizable by the shade of red of the 2 lines, the “SEA-DWELLER” characters larger than those of the 2nd line, the large crown with sharp points and the characteristic shape of the “O” in “ROLEX”.

Beyond its authenticity, it is indeed the state of preservation of this piece that captivated us. The dial is perfect, and its luminescent indexes (tritium base) have developed a superb warm and uniform patina, like the 3 hands and the pearl in the triangle of the bezel insert. This chromatic combination of the black dial, the white markings, the 2 red lines, and the orange of the tritium has elevated the 1665 Double Red to the status of an “icon” of tool watch design, and has been constantly imitated ever since.

The 40 mm stainless steel case, designed to withstand a pressure of 610 meters (2,000 feet), is remarkably well preserved. The thick lugs retain their original proportions and finishes, and feature prominent, visible chamfers. The Triplock crown is also in excellent cosmetic condition. The screw-down caseback, engraved with “ROLEX PATENT OYSTER GAS ESCAPE VALVE,” bears the case serial number repeated in full on the inside, a sought-after detail confirming the integrity and authenticity of this piece. The case is topped with a highly curved, unmistakable “Superdome” plexiglas crystal, which again adds a unique vintage charm to the watch.

This watch is accompanied by a steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, reference 93150, produced in 1976 (buckle code A). This bracelet, with 585 end pieces, is robust and provides exceptional comfort to its wearer. Its safety clasp and diving extension make it an ideal choice for functional or everyday use, while maintaining the original spirit of the Sea-Dweller.

Inside, the Rolex caliber 1575 powers this Sea-Dweller. Chronometer-certified by the COSC, this 26-jewel automatic movement is renowned for its reliability and precision. It features a date window at 3 o'clock, with instantaneous date change at midnight. This movement has been carefully serviced by one of our watchmakers specializing in vintage Rolex calibers, ensuring optimal performance.

A superb example.

This Sea-Dweller known as the “Double Red” is presented in superb overall condition.
The “Mark IV” dial is perfect, has not been restored, and its luminescent indexes (tritium base) have developed a superb warm and uniform patina, like the 3 hands and the pearl in the triangle of the bezel insert.
The stainless steel case is remarkably well preserved. The thick lugs retain their original proportions and finishes, with clear demarcations between the brushed and mirror-polished surfaces, and feature visible, prominent chamfers.
The Triplock crown is also in excellent condition.
The screw-down caseback is original to the watch, as evidenced by the presence of the case's full serial number repeated inside. All of its engravings are deep and crisp.
The highly curved “Superdome” plexiglass crystal is also in excellent condition.
The stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with diver's extension, reference 93150, end links 585, clasp code A (production in 1976) is in excellent condition, with no looseness ("stretch"). The 5-pointed crown on the buckle is very defined.
The self-winding mechanical movement, Rolex caliber 1575, chronometer-certified, has been completely overhauled by one of our watchmakers specializing in vintage Rolex calibers, and operates according to the strictest tolerances.

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