Superb 1975 Rolex “Double Red” Sea-Dweller 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 to better withstand the constraints of saturation diving.
We are pleased to present here a superb example of reference 1665 known as a "Double Red", produced in 1975 (serial number 408xxxx), equipped with a "Mark IV" dial whose luminescent indexes (tritium base) have developed a magnificent warm and uniform patina, as have the 3 hands and the pearl in the insert triangle.
The remarkably well-preserved 40mm stainless steel case is closed by a caseback featuring the full serial number inside, and topped with a domed “Superdome” plexiglass crystal, adding to the unmistakable vintage charm of the watch.
The self-winding mechanical movement that powers this watch, Rolex chronometer-certified caliber 1575, is renowned for its reliability and precision and has been completely overhauled by one of our expert watchmakers.

The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 1665, nicknamed “Double Red” 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 has undergone several developments over its 16-year presence in the Rolex catalogue. 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 harmony with its serial number (408xxxx). This dial variant, the last “Double Red” fitted as standard by Rolex, is recognizable by the shade of the 2 red lines, the “SEA-DWELLER” characters larger than those of the 2nd line, the large crown with sharp spikes 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, as have the 3 hands and the pearl in the insert triangle. This chromatic combination of the black dial, the white markings, the 2 red lines, and the orange of the tritium has elevated the Double Red 1665 to the status of icon of tool watch design, and continues to this day to inspire brands and watchmakers.

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 visible and prominent chamfers. The Triplock crown is also in excellent cosmetic condition. The screw-down case back, 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 domed, unmistakable “Superdome” plexiglass crystal, which again adds a unique vintage charm to the watch.

It is accompanied by a steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, reference 93150, produced in 1979 (buckle code VD). This bracelet, linked to the case by correct 585 end links, is robust and provides great 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 offers a date display via an aperture 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 operation.

A superb example of 'Double Red Sea-Dweller'.

This so-called “Double Red” Sea-Dweller called is presented in superb overall condition.
The Mark IV dial is perfect, has never been restored, and its luminescent indexes (tritium base) have developed a superb warm and uniform patina, as have the 3 hands and the pearl in the insert triangle.
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, crisp chamfers.
The Triplock crown is also in excellent condition.
The screw-down case back is original to the watch, as evidenced by the presence of the case's full serial number repeated on the inside. All of its engravings are deep and crisp.
The highly curved “Superdome” plexiglass crystal is in excellent condition.
The stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with safety clasp and diving extension, reference 93150, end links 585, buckle code VD (production in 1979) is in excellent condition, with no stretch or damage. The 5-point crown on the buckle is very defined.
The self-winding mechanical movement, chronometer-certified Rolex caliber 1575, has been completely overhauled by one of our watchmakers specializing in vintage Rolex calibers, and operates to the strictest tolerances.

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