Rolex 1665 DRSD Mk2 Tropical Dial
Vintage

Rolex 1665 DRSD Mk2 Tropical Dial

By Baron - Mr Red · Sep 4, 2014 · 21 replies
Baron - Mr Red
WPS member · Rolex forum
21 replies7753 views4 photos
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Baron - Mr Red shares his enduring affection for the Rolex 1665 Double Red Sea-Dweller (DRSD) Mark 2, highlighting its unique characteristic of developing a tropical brown dial. This post delves into the aesthetic appeal of this vintage reference and the subtle variations that make each piece distinct, inviting collectors to appreciate the beauty of natural aging in luxury timepieces.

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This is probably my favourite reference from Rolex...probably. I have owned a Mk2 for several years now. The one on my wrist in the first scan belongs to a friend. It is hard to tell from the scan as the light camouflages the dial somewhat, but there is evidence that this dial will turn a tropical brown...its started already and I am sure will continue.........because.....




.......when a Mk2 starts to turn tropical, it can become magic.....








There is nothing quite like a Double Red!




The watch in the first scan is a late Mk2 by serial whereas my own watch is quite early. Maybe that explains why some Mk2s vary in when they turn tropical, but if there is one type of reference that seems really prone to the "affliction" it is the Mk2 1665......

About the Rolex great white Ref. 1665

The Rolex Reference 1665, known as the "Great White," is a specific iteration within its model family. This particular reference is distinct from the Reference 1680, which the collector notes as a separate model undergoing a makeover.

This example features a case described as being in good condition. The movement is a caliber 1570. The dial is a servicedial with Luminova, marked as a Tritium dial.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking specific variations within the Rolex lineup. The presence of a servicedial with Luminova, marked as Tritium, is a notable characteristic for those interested in dial variations.

Specifications

Caliber
1570, 1575
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
610m (2000ft)
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
DR
DrStrong
Sep 4, 2014

I have owned two of them - both first owner watches with full provenance - and I must say it's a incredible vintage Rolex !

AM
amanico
Sep 4, 2014

To be redone! Best, Nicolas

EP
eparisini
Sep 4, 2014

DRSD is my favourite, Mk2 is the most interesting batch!

MA
marcello pisani
Sep 4, 2014

there is no particular " rule " about fading to brown : there are 3 mains " degrees " of faded mk2 dials ( chocolate , middle and dark brown ) but you can find the 3 shades in all batches of " 1665 mk2 " produced so in the range from 1.7 up to around 3.1 ( many US collector on the contrarry accept mk2 dials up to 3.5 ). in my opinion most mk2 ( if not all ) were produced roughly at the same time ( 1967-8 ) and then fixed to watches when new cases were avalaible.

DI
DivingT
Sep 4, 2014

I just love these posts, beautiful examples being posted by everyone!! cheers Tony

BA
Baron - Mr Red
Sep 5, 2014

....i have a beautiful 1665 Rail.... but without the red, its just not the same

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