Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 'Patent Pending' Comparison

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Baron - Mr Red shares an exceptional gathering of three Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 watches, highlighting the subtle yet significant differences between Mk1 and Mk2 'Patent Pending' dials. This post offers a rare side-by-side comparison of these historically important dive watches, underscoring their unique characteristics and provenance. His detailed account delves into the watches' historical context, particularly the two Mk1s with consecutive serial numbers and shared diving history.

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So this will be the first of a number of posts about the most recent weekend. With two friends, we visited Switzerland for a weekend of horological fun, food, walking, drinking and discussions about our great hobby. I have already posted a small taster in the HOME forum for some amuse-bouche! But now, I will focus on some of the Rolex on play...

For this post, I will focus on just three. All 1665 Sea-Dwellers, but for me this was a unique experience of having all three together.

Some obvious clues here....

An indoor and outdoor shot to show how the red writing varies so much between the three versions.....

Three patent pendings.....two Mk1 and my precious Mk2. So similar, yet so different. The Mk2 with its tropical dial, its different dial specification. The Mk1s with their shades of red/pink, yet these two have consecutive serial numbers and papers showing that the divers who owned them not only worked together, testing the prototype Mk1s, but remained friends thereafter. Such special watches with so much historical importance to Rolex.

More posts to come....but thought a small taster appropriate!

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

The two Mk1 Sea-Dwellers have truly consecutive serial numbers, differing only by the 7th digit, and belonged to divers who worked together testing prototype Mk1s, a detail the author plans to elaborate on in future posts.
The historical paperwork for the Mk1s reveals that one diver worked for a lesser-known dive company, not Comex, adding a unique dimension to their provenance.
The author considers the Ref. 1665 his favorite Rolex reference and plans a full review, emphasizing the appeal of watches with genuine 'service' history and accompanying documentation.
The 'pink text' on the dials of these vintage Sea-Dwellers is a highly appreciated characteristic, contributing significantly to each watch's individual character.
The author notes the distinct variation in red writing between the three versions, particularly when viewed in different lighting conditions, showcasing the nuances of vintage dials.

The Discussion

optionc

Sep 16, 2013

Wonderful trio. And a fantastic get together no doubt. Best, OpC

DivingT

Sep 16, 2013

3 Patent pendings - looking forward to the histories. Cheers Tony

Baron - Mr Red

Sep 16, 2013

.....and yes, you can count on more scans

Baron - Mr Red

Sep 16, 2013

as there are so many perspectives to look at....but you know....like at Christmas....some presents you just gotta rip off the paper and go for it

Bill

Sep 16, 2013

The pink text is a real killer. Each one has so much character. So much the same but so different. Thanks for sharing these three specimens. Eagerly looking forward to hearing more about the history and details of each watch. Best Bill

Baron - Mr Red

Sep 16, 2013

.....i have really extensive history of these two. I think i will post that in a separate version as it is literally pages of history. These two divers worked together...tested the watches etc....and they didn't know that their watches were consecutive serial numbers....and i mean REALLY consecutive....the 7th digit !! That feature has always been stunning to me. What is also interesting is that one of the divers worked for a dive company (not Comex) that is not normally heard. I know you know t

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Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 'Patent Pending' Comparison

About the Rolex great white Ref. 1665

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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