Debuting in 1967, with the specific aim of bolstering Rolex's dive watch offering, the Rolex Sea-Dweller built upon the industry-leading dive watch credentials that the Submariner had earned Rolex over the previous 14 years. Created specifically with professional divers in mind, Rolex collaborated with diving companies like COMEX to perfect the Sea-Dweller's design and ensure it would be the ultimate dive watch. Featuring the ingenious Helium-Escape Valve that Rolex had patented the same year, a hugely impressive water resistance, and a sizeable case design, the Sea-Dweller rightfully toppled the Submariner as Rolex's most hardcore dive watch. Today offered in a few separate styles such as two-tone, with various dials, and in two different case sizes (43mm and 44mm), the Sea-Dweller has taken a leaf from the rest of Rolex's offerings and merged its tool-watch focused design with tasteful aesthetics, to create one of the most sought-after and best-equipped dive watches that any diver might ever need.

The overall condition is excellent. Dial appears to be in mint condition, with matching lume. Bezel has a nice fade and a matching pearl. Hands have a bit of discoloration, and there is a fine crack in the minute hand. Luminous matches the dial and we believe the hands are original and certainly are period correct. Case is very sharp with a strong beveled edge. Surface abrasions present throughout the case and bracelet, consistent with moderate usage. There is a total of 10 links in the bracelet. Clasp code is VE, which is consistent for a watch of this era (circa 1980).

Combining the Sea-Dweller's robust construction with a 40mm diameter, the ref. 1665 is a stunning marriage between the Sea-Dweller's famed functionality and a wonderfully wearable design that will feel at home on most wrist sizes.