1978 Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 ‘Great White' MK3

The Double Red Sea Dweller eventually stopped production around the 5.2 million serial and since then a new watch that retained the model number 1665 was born. The new watch had the same case as the 1665 but the dial was now devoid of the red paint and new fonts were used and the case back was also different. The new “Great White” Sea Dweller was born.

This example offered here is a Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 from 1978 also known as ‘Great White’.

The black matte MK 3 dial is flawless, presenting oversized - or ‘maxi’ - lume plots that show a vanilla patina hue, matching with that on the original hands.

The original MK3 bezel insert is simply stunning. Having aged and faded to a perfectly even, gray-blue ‘ghost’ hue, it remains flawless with matching tritium pearl/pip. The contrast of the insert and the dial is simply stunning.

The case is also in great shape, remaining thick, and still with some factory lines present, being a sign that this piece has seen no overpolishing jobs. It shows normal signs of use. The case back remains in the same condition, letting perfectly visible all engravings.

The original domed crystal presents some minor scratches that could be easily buffed away.

It comes suited on its original 20mm Rolex Oyster 93150 stainless steel bracelet with 580 end links, clasp code S P3 and divers’ extension that shows normal wear and stretch.

The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.

Macros of dial and case are available under request.