194 Rolex Extremely Rare and Desired Omani Sea-Dweller Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 1665, With Gold Khanjar Logo

Estimate: €300,000 –⁠ 600,000

Model: Sea-Dweller
Reference: 1665
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1977
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1570
Case N°: 5336330
Dimensions: 39 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Literature: Former property and published in John Goldberger book

Rolex has always had water as a favorite element for new and increasingly efficient watch tools since, in 1927, it put the first completely waterproof watch on the wrist of the British swimmer Mercedes Gleitze. From that moment on, the capacity of immersion of Rolex timepieces increased more and more and in 1967 was presented the first evolution of the Submariner 5514 and was created the Sea-Dweller model reference 1665, one whose exponent is the lot offered here. The case has the same characteristics as the Submariner with the exception of a helium and gas escape valve at 9 o’clock to withstand the compression and allow a greater immersion capacity up to 2000 feet (610 meters). “Rolex patented” Oyster Gas escape valve also visible on the case back, exactly as the present lot. The dial has a mat black color with white text but the most important thing to underline is the presence of the Khanjar symbol, a part of the national emblem of Oman. Watches fitted with “Khanjar” dials were made on a special request from His Majesty Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the Sultan of Oman, and presented as gifts to his closest dignitaries and servants. Rolex scholars hypothesize that around 80 to 90 Sea-Dwellers with Omani text were manufactured. The emblem printed in gold tones above 6 o’clock, it complements the black background graphics incredibly well and, moreover, the case is preserved in beautiful condition, featuring crisp edges and keeps its charm intact and offers the chance of owning one of the most legendary and iconic dive watches ever produced.