THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1665
YEAR: 1978
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
If you’ve ever spoken with our founder, Stef, he’s probably told you that the 1665 is his favourite Rolex reference. It has a distinct, masculine presence unlike any other Rolex model. To this day, the Sea-Dweller remains the only sports Rolex born purely out of necessity. Unlike the MilSub, which was essentially a modified 5513, the Sea-Dweller was developed because the state-of-the-art dive model Rolex offered simply couldn’t meet the demands of the evolving subsea environment.
The reference 1665 was produced from 1967 to 1983 (though it wasn’t sold to civilians until around 1971). Until 1977, these watches were affectionately known as “Double Red Sea-Dwellers” thanks to their red text. From 1977 to 1983, five additional dial variations appeared (MK0–MK4), now with the Sea-Dweller name and depth rating printed in white—earning them the nickname “Great White.”
The present example features a MK1 dial, typically seen in the 5.1M to early 6M serial range. Although there is overlap with MK2 and MK3 dials, in our experience, MK1 Great Whites are far rarer. In fact, we’ve encountered fewer MK1s than DRSDs.
It’s fascinating to see how two examples of the same reference can age so differently. While our other MK1 1665 was worn regularly by a Scottish gentleman over decades, this one has lived a much more sedate life—the dial is absolutely flawless, and the lume on both the markers and hands has aged to a rich, creamy tone. It’s wonderfully contrasted by the original MK3 bezel insert, which shows no colour fading at all.
The case has seen a polishing wheel in the past but remains strong. The full-link 93150/580 bracelet with diver’s extension shows minimal stretch, and the clasp is a 1999 service replacement. The movement has been freshly serviced and is running superbly at +2 s/d, with 285 amplitude and a 0.2 ms beat error. Another honest 1665—stunning on the wrist.