The Rolex Sea-Dweller Reference 1665, introduced around 1967, was developed for saturation diving, featuring a groundbreaking helium escape valve and 2,000 ft (610 m) water resistance. Known for the “Double Red” (DRSD) dial from 1967–1977, it later transitioned to the all-white “Great White” dial before being replaced in the 1980s by the reference 16660 sapphire crystal model. Interestingly, “Great Whites” tend to trade at significantly lower prices than Double Reds, despite being produced for only about five years versus the roughly ten-year run of the Double Red!

This particular example features a Mark I “Great White” dial variant—and what a lovely dial it is, with warm cream-coloured lume on both plots and hands. The iconic case remains in strong overall condition, with thick lugs and crown guards, complemented by a beautiful glossy black bezel insert. It is finished with a reference 93150 Oyster bracelet, fitted with end links marked 585 and a clasp stamped S DE 10.

The watch comes complete with its iconic Rolex “Seahorse” outer box, inner box, paper holder, calendar card, and the original punched warranty papers showing a sale in 1978. The movement has been fully serviced by our watchmaker.

We love these early Sea-Dwellers for their greater wrist presence compared to the Submariner. Let us help you add this iconic professional diver’s watch to your collection—contact us today!

Specifications:

Rolex Reference 1665 Sea-Dweller
40mm steel case
Serial 529xxxx dating to 1978
Mk1 white dial with cream patina
Inner -outer rolex boxes , calendar card , paper holder
Punched punched warranty paper stating a sale in 1978.
Solid-link Oyster bracelet 93150 with 585 endlinks
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide FedEx Priority shipping

Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Great White MK1 Dial with Box and Papers

Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Great White MK1 Dial with Box and Papers

Before/after