The Rolex "Single Red" Sea-Dweller Model with Gas Valve ref 1665 (2nd Version-Prototype)

The Rolex "Single Red" Sea-Dweller

An appropriate name having been chosen, The Sea-Dweller. So secret was the test model, that nearly 50 years on, many Rolex dealers let alone collectors are unaware of its existance.

Today it is known as the elusive Rolex "Single Red" Sea-Dweller.

It is very different to the final product in that:-

Lacks date code inside case back.

-Had a depth rating of 500m/1650ft on the dial.

-Only the words "SEA-DWELLER" in red writing.

-"Patent Pending" on the rim of the case back, as these watches were manufactured before the "Gas Escape Valve" technology patent was granted.

- Twinlock Rolex crown.

-Caliber 1570 "Non-Hacking" chronometer movement.

This model was not available for general sale, and only issued or presented to COMEX divers as test models on behalf of the Rolex Watch Company.

Only a handful of these prototypes have survived in the original configurations.

The Rolex "Double Red" Sea-Dweller Model ref 1665 ( Patent Pending-MK1 on General Sale )

Rolex were approaching near the end product.

-Thick case

-Calibre 1570 Chronmeter movement, non-hacking seconds.

-Rolex Double-Lock or Triple-Lock Crown

-Thick domed plexi-glass for extra protection.

-3 digits on inside of case back matching the last 3 digits of the serial number.

-Engraved "Rolex" on caseback and "Patent Pending"

- Big Sea-Dweller/Submariner 2000 dial

During further test, this version was, by Rolex high standards, a success.

Finally, Rolex managed to create a unique diving watch, a tribute to its collaboration with COMEX.

This version was not due for to be produced for General Sale as Rolex were waiting for the Patent to be granted for the Gas Escape Valve, but for commercial reasons and on the back of many diving projects receiving massive publicity, Rolex distributed 114 of these Models to Rolex agents world wide circa 1967/1968, with Patent Pending engraved on the the Caseback.

The Rolex "Double Red" Sea-Dweller Model ref 1665 ( MKII and MKIII -On General Sale )

The Official Rolex "Double Red" Sea-Dweller finally went on sale to the general public in 1968, with the Patent of the Gas Escape Valve being signed and sealed, and its cult status was assured.

It was the only Rolex watch on sale that had:-

-Two lines of Red Writing.

-Rolex engraved case back.

-"Gas Escape Valve" on side of the case.

-Serial number engraved not only in between the lugs but also on the inside of the case back. The early ones ( serial number 1.7million to 3 million) had only 3 digits on inside of case back that matched the last 3 digits of the serial number.

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The Rolex "Double Red" Sea-Dweller Model ref 1665 ( MKIV -On General Sale )

-Change of font on the Submariner 2000, and the depth ratings.

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The Rolex "Double Red" Sea-Dweller Model ref 1665 ( MKV -Rolex Service Luminova Replacement Dial)

 

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