1979 Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 1665 MK 1 'Great White'

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.

 

The Great Whites MK 1 went from serials 5.18 up to 6.2, being the most sought-after version after the rarer MK0.

This example is a MK 1 with serial 6.1 in outstanding condition.

 

The black matte dial is just flawless; 10/10. The oversized ‘maxi’ lume plots present a vivid, yellow patina with a ‘spongy’ kind of texture that only builds up by being inside of a drawer for many years. The original hands are also in perfect condition and have a matching patina.

 

The original bezel presents sharp edges. The bezel insert is original and remains in great shape too, preserving the original pearl with matching patina.

 

The case is simply gorgeous. It presents very sharp lugs with factory finishes. No mayor dents or scratches.

 

The original super-domed crystal is also in great condition, magnifying even more the ‘maxi’ hour plots giving them a kind of egg-shape.

 

It comes suited on the original 11-linked 20mm Rolex 93150 Oyster stainless-steel bracelet with 585 end links and code J6 clasp and diver’s extension. It shows some stretch from use.

 

The Rolex cal. 1570 is clean as it was serviced before. It keeps accurate time.

 

Finding vintage Rolex watches in this condition is turning more and more difficult. This is indeed a great opportunity to own a superb Rolex iconic diver from the 70s.