Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 "Rail" Dial with "Ghosted" Bezel

Dealer description — Collectors Corner NY

The Rolex Sea Dweller is a professional grade dive watch that goes above and beyond the call of duty. First introduced in 1967, the reference 1665 was the first timepiece to feature a helium escape valve, facilitating helium gas to escape safely, preventing crystal failure. Although it shares similar DNA to other Rolex watches like the Submariner, the Sea Dweller notably features a thicker case, and in some iterations the lack of date cyclops is a welcome feature. Overall, it is a pure and purpose built tool watch that is rated for astonishing depths in its later production era. This example with 578X serial is circa 1979 and houses a rare and collectible "rail" dial. Some scholars estimate fewer than 1,000 were produced with this dial from '77 to '79 which is distinguished by the perfect alignment of its "Superlative Chronometer" and "Officially Certified" text. Remaining in excellent vintage condition, this piece boasts a mint dial with attractive cream patina, matching the hands and pip nicely. The insert has "ghosted" to a stunning grey with faint hints of blue and the case has seen some polishing in the past but retains thick lugs. The correct "VC" dated bracelet retains 11 links, shows light stretch and will fit an approximate 7.25 inch wrist. If you've been looking for a no-frills and near bomb proof tool watch that's not as commonly seen, this particular Sea Dweller has all the bells and whistles one could hope for.