1978 Rolex Sea-Dweller (Ref. 1665) MK I “Great White”

In 1977 the Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 received an upDated dial configuration. This new dial configuration is sometimes referred to as the “Great White”. This upDated dial differs from the previous variants, as the dial states the model as “SEA- DWELLER” and the writing “SUBMARINER 2000” which was located below “SEA-DWELLER” of previous models is now absent from the dial.

In addition, “SEA-DWELLER” is now in white text as opposed to red text  which was standard on all sea dweller dials since the model’s first introduction in 1967.(**And Other accompanying red text depending on dial variant and vintage) 

This specific example from 1978 preserves its era-correct MK I dial configuration which is the 2nd Rarest dial configuration outside of the MK II dial for the Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref 1665. The MK I dial has the same font for the depth rating “2000ft= 610m” as the predecessor the Double Red Sea Dweller which displays non-italicized font. The later dial variants and or MK II, MKI II, & MK IV dials all display the depth rating in an italicized font. 

This particular 1978 Sea-Dweller Ref.1665 also retains an original and charming “fat font” insert with correct long “5” which has taken on a stunning ghost like fade with hints of charcoal, blue, and anthracite. The elapsed minute indicators, markers, and numbers are clearly visible and legible and the insert even retains the original factory pearl at the 12 o’clock triangle which has taken on a wonderful caramel coloration.

 

Stock #		RLXSD166578
Brand		Rolex
Style		Sea Dweller
Model		1665
Serial		57XXXXX
Size		Men’s
Material		SS
Dial		Black Matte (MK I)
Millimeters		40
Bracelet		Rolex Oyster Flip lock 93150 With 580 End Pieces

 

CASE & Bracelet

The case has been previously polished but retains thick and full lugs and is in incredible form and condition. The Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet and 580 end links are in excellent condition and the bracelet shows very slight stretch from use. This particular 1978 Sea-Dweller Ref.1665 also retains an original and beautiful “fat font” insert with correct long “5” which has taken on a stunning “ghost” matte fade with hints of blue, gray, and anthracite. There is some pitting and wear on the insert but the elapsed minute indicators, markers, and numbers are clearly visible and legible, the insert even retains the original factory pearl at the 12 o’clock triangle which has taken on a wonderful caramel coloration.

DIAL & HANDS

The MK I matte dial is in impeccable condition. The tritium lume markers have achieved a wonderful ivory coloration and the original hands match the overall patina of the dial and hands which have aged a shade darker with a bit of green which is commonly seen in MK I 1665 references. When observed under U.V. light the aging within the hands and lume plots on the dial is very even and consistent of what is commonly seen in this era of Ref 1665. The original silver Date disk displays open 6 and 9’s. 

Accessories 

None. The watch just received a full and complete service and is running at COSC spec backed by a 1-year warranty of accurate time keeping.