
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.




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.
I have owned two of them - both first owner watches with full provenance - and I must say it's a incredible vintage Rolex !
To be redone! Best, Nicolas
DRSD is my favourite, Mk2 is the most interesting batch!
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.
I just love these posts, beautiful examples being posted by everyone!! cheers Tony
....i have a beautiful 1665 Rail.... but without the red, its just not the same
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