Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Collection: Red-White-Gold
Collection

Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Collection: Red-White-Gold

By Baron - Mr Red · Apr 5, 2012 · 21 replies
Baron - Mr Red
WPS member · Rolex forum
21 replies4972 views3 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

Baron - Mr Red shares his profound passion for the Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665, detailing his journey to complete a themed collection of this iconic reference. His post celebrates the 1665's deep-rooted history as a true tool watch, particularly its connections to Comex and other dive operations. Baron's personal narrative and stunning photography offer a compelling look into why the 1665 stands out as 'King' among Rolex references for him.

21 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →
Of all the Rolex references, there are many that I love. The vintage Dayto is right up there, as is the 1680 Red Sub. So too is the 5512/5513, 5508, 6538. I love the 6610 and also have time for the Explorer II. There are many references that I very much enjoy. But if there was one reference that stood out for me, and I appreciate that this is a very personal view, then it is the 1665. This reference has so much of its history engineered from the need for Rolex to produce a true tool watch. Its origins come from that need. The links with Comex and other dive companies are buried deep in the 1665s DNA. That history and DNA make the watch attractive to me.

As a watch to wear, it is very different to a Sub. It sits more proud on the wrist than the Subs. One can spot a Sea-Dweller very easily. It has a feel to it on the wrist which is so different to a Sub. Within Rolex, this is what I think is King. It is a bruiser of a watch, but with real class. 

Today, I completed my theme of collecting 1665s. I have five in total, but two of them are wrapped up abroad so I cannot post the whole theme. Today arrived the final piece in this personal jigsaw puzzle....the White Rail Dial. I have been looking for one of these for a while. I wanted to find one with correct punched papers. The wait was long. I see large numbers of Mk4 DRSD with papers. I see much less Mk3, but they are around. In my view, a correct White Rail dial with papers is considerably harder to find than either of these DRSD. But today, mine arrived. And I am thrilled with it. 

Here are some pictures of three of my gang of five...taken today. The other two are the MK2 DRSD Patent Pending and the Oman Gold. You can tell them apart quite easily....! 

Well, given Nicolas has been posting his killers on here for a while, these pictures are for you, my French friend. 













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

Advertisement
The Discussion
SU
Subexplorer
Apr 5, 2012
Hello Baron!! Looks like Spring time came to your home!...

... we are now receiving Autum down here, and soon will be remembering with some nostalgia the warm Spring and Summer sun. I enjoyed reading your description of your DS collection, and understanding your passion and true "gusto" for this model. Your collection is Superb, and I specially like your Omani dial watch. Always thought they got such an exotic look! I´m also happy for you, to know about your last addition. I well imagine how much you will enjoy wearing it, as well as the other Rolex ref

BA
Baron - Mr Red
Apr 5, 2012
Thanks Abel....

I am legendary as a photographer. I can make Claudia Schiffer look ugly.

SU
Subexplorer
Apr 5, 2012
Lol dear Baron! But I don´t think so! [nt]

No message body

AM
amanico
Apr 5, 2012
RMLOL. Bring some of them with you, I will make them look like Samantha Fox. ;) [nt]

No message body

BA
Baron - Mr Red
Apr 5, 2012
i should also say....

.....thanks to Jed for finding the White Rail Dial. Really pleasant to deal with. So often, vintage dealers have absolutely nothing positive to say about any other dealer or collector unless they happen to be a collector they are selling a watch to. Imagine that... Thanks Jed for being civil and polite. Lovely watch.

AM
amanico
Apr 5, 2012
You just vladed me....

I love them all, and I measure the challenge which will be mine when attacking the 1665 Hill... I always wanted an " Arab " one, as well as a MK II, and a Raiul Dial. So, your tiercé is what I have in mind, exactly. Which is cruel, but how good! Thanks for the pain,, my friend, it is my masochistic pleasure. Well, you can also expect some terrific vengeance from Vlad... Too. Best, Nicolas

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Rolex forum with 21 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →