The Rolex Sea-Dweller reference 1665, particularly the highly coveted "Great White" variant produced in collaboration with COMEX, represents the pinnacle of vintage diving watches. More than just a timekeeping instrument, it's a testament to Rolex's pioneering spirit, its unwavering commitment to precision, and its enduring legacy in the world of professional diving. This article delves deep into the fascinating history, unique features, and the enduring appeal of the Rolex 1665 Great White, exploring its place within the broader context of rare Rolex Sea-Dweller models and the vintage Rolex market.
The Genesis of a Legend: The Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller
The Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller, introduced in the early 1970s, was a significant evolution in diving watch technology. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the reference 1660, the 1665 incorporated several crucial improvements, most notably a helium escape valve. This groundbreaking feature, crucial for saturation diving, allowed helium gas – used in deep-sea diving saturation chambers – to escape safely during decompression, preventing the crystal from shattering under pressure. This made the 1665 a truly professional-grade diving instrument, capable of withstanding the extreme pressures of deep-sea exploration.
The 1665's robust construction, featuring a thicker case than its predecessors, further enhanced its durability and water resistance. The watch's larger case size, compared to the Submariner, provided increased legibility and better protection for the movement. This attention to detail, combined with Rolex's unparalleled reputation for quality and precision, solidified the 1665's position as a highly sought-after timepiece among professional divers and collectors alike.
The COMEX Collaboration and the Birth of the "Great White"
The partnership between Rolex and the French underwater construction company, COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Sea-Dweller. COMEX, known for its pioneering work in deep-sea saturation diving, required a robust and reliable timepiece capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of their operations. This collaboration led to the creation of several special edition Sea-Dwellers, including the highly sought-after "Great White" versions of the reference 1665.
Produced between 1977 and 1981, the COMEX Sea-Dweller 1665, often referred to as the "Great White" due to its distinctive white dial, is an exceptionally rare and collectible model. Only approximately 300 examples were ever made, making it one of the most exclusive and desirable vintage Rolex watches in existence. The dial's clean, uncluttered design, featuring bold, luminous hour markers and hands, ensured exceptional legibility even in the darkest depths. The "Great White" also featured the iconic "COMEX" marking, a testament to its unique heritage and its connection to the world of professional diving. This marking, subtly yet powerfully placed on the dial, immediately identifies this specific variant as a highly valuable piece of horological history.
Distinguishing Features of the 1665 Great White:
Several key features distinguish the 1665 Great White from other Sea-Dweller models:
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