Mk1 ‘Great White’ 1665 Sea-Dweller

You are not a Navy Sealab/Comex diver. You are not an astronaut. You are not a factory Porsche driver. At least, based on relative viewership and statistics. Despite these many shortcomings, you and I may still enjoy a small link to these outrageous professions. In 1977, the reference 1665 Sea-Dweller received a bit of an update where it ditched the double red depth rating. What ensued has become known as the Great White, so named for its stark white, imposing, cyclops-less face. It’s become an icon.

Water resistance of 2000 feet is nothing to scoff at, particularly for the 1970s. The reference gained fame for being used in the US Navy Sealab expeditions, meant to test the health effects of underwater isolation. Sealab divers switched from Subs to Sea Dwellers because their crystals kept popping off on ascent. Innovation in steps, not bounds, for Rolex. This was accomplished through a very thick plexi crystal, thicker 40mm steel case, and helium escape valve which allowed helium to exit the case during decompression and prevents the plexi from popping up under the pressure.

This example presents as well as one could hope. The large tritium plots have yellowed marginally, echoed in the handset. All signatures are unfaded and legible. The case is very sharp, possibly unpolished. Crown and fonts look correct. No mention is made of service history. It comes from a well regarded retailer.

Find this Mk1 Great White here from 41 Watch for 26500 USD.