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Rolex “MK2 Patent Pending” Double Red Sea-Dweller

SOLD

Description

Up for grabs is an incredible rare Rolex “Double Red” Seadweller, circa 1967.  This example has a “Mark II” (MK2) dial, and what is referred to as a “thin case”.  These watches were designed for diving under extreme depths, and were thus fitted with a helium escape valve on the left-hand side of the case, which was used to release pressure as it built up under water.  According to sources, the Ref. 1665 was initially rushed to production and some early watches were sent to dealers for promotion or early sales; these watches were signed on the outside of the caseback “patent pending”, as Rolex had not yet been given final approval on their patent for the escape valve.

This example is in great vintage condition.  The case has been lightly polished in the past, with the original bevels still present and visible.  The dial is perfect, with no wear, marks, scratches, etc.  The original tritium lume is still present on both hands and dial, aged to a golden yellow.  The “fat font” insert has aged to a blue hue and is in good condition.

This watch comes fitted on a “Patent Pending” 9315 flip-lock bracelet, with 285 endlinks, and stamped 2nd quarter of 1970.  The bracelet has 11 full links and has moderate stretch.  Further, the watch comes together with its original box and “punched” warranty booklet.  The outside of the caseback is engraved with the original owner’s name and Social Security Number; although it is speculative, it is possible that the owner was a member of the military, as watches were sometimes engraved with service members’ Social Security Numbers in order to identify them in the event of their death during service.

Additional information

Caliber
Case

Stainless Steel

Dimensions

40mm

Function

Date, Time

Model