The Rolex 'Double Red'
Rolex is a name that has become synonymous with 'tool' watches, designed to carry out a task. Their iconic models include the Submariner, the GMT and the Explorer. One of these tool watches that is not so well known, but highly sought after amongst collectors is the Sea-Dweller. This was launched back in 1967 (reference 1665), the Rolex 'Double Red' and is still a model name used today. It was an evolution of Rolex's famed dive watch, the Submariner. The Submariner at that time had a depth rating of 200m/660ft, however, the Sea-Dweller was aimed at those who went deeper and had a depth rating of 610m/2000ft!
Differences Between the Sea-Dweller and the Submariner
There were a few differences that separated the Sea-Dweller from the Submariner. One of which was the addition of a helium escape valve on the side of the case. Saturation divers would often notice a strange phenomenon with their Submariners, the crystal would often pop out in the decompression chamber after a dive! Saturation diving requires helium in the breathing gas mix and after prolonged exposure, helium particles would form inside the watch's case. These particles would escape from the weakest point, which was the plexiglass. Rolex solved this issue by patenting their helium escape valve (Swiss patent reference CH492246 if you're interested!!) which let these helium particles escape via this mechanism. The Sea-Dweller also has a thicker domed crystal and a thicker case than the Submariner. Also, this 1665 reference is one of the few watches where Rolex engraved on the case back.
Another difference between the Sea-Dweller and the Submariner was the red writing on the first-generation Sea-Dweller dial. The text 'Sea-Dweller' and 'Submariner 2000' is in red giving the dial a lovely pop of colour and has been given the nickname 'Double Red' amongst Rolex collectors. These early Sea-Dwellers are hugely sought after amongst Rolex collectors and rarely come to market as they didn't sell in huge numbers and those that were sold were often used in saturation diving which further diminished their numbers. The 'Double Red' Sea-Dweller was in fact produced for 10 years between
1967 to 1977 before being replaced by the 'Great White' which was technically very simpler but did away with that lovely red text.
Rolex 'Double Red' at Auction
Watches | Thursday 31st October 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Tuesday 15th October 10:00-16:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
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