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Lot Essay
One of the most iconic wristwatches by Rolex, the Sea-Dweller was developed together with the maritime exploration company "Comex". The main feature of the timepiece is the gas escape valve, which allows for the release of gas built-up inside the case during decompression, thus preventing potential damage to the watch.
The so-called "double red" version is defined by the two red lines of the designation, versus the full white designation more commonly found on the model. It has become one of the most appreciated and recognized representative of the line. The present timepiece is however further graced by a tropical example of double red dial, sporting a deep dark chocolate hue.
Another notable feature of this piece is its "thin" case construction, used by Rolex for a short time at the beginning of the Sea-Dweller production and soon abandoned in favor of a thicker, more resistant case design. Of course this cases are earlier, rarer and much more appreciated by collectors.
The "double red" dial underwent an evolution over time, as typical with Rolex designs. The present version is a "Mark II", characterized by similar font size of the first and second lines applied in vibrant red directly onto the black background, and by the Rolex logo with slightly warped crown tips and a very small "O" at the base of the crown. Mark II dials are usually found on watches with case number around 1.7 million, as in this instance. Mark II dials are known for, at times, showing tropicalization, as in this case. It is an educated guess that the process will continue over time, thus increasing the attractiveness and collectability of the piece.
The so-called "double red" version is defined by the two red lines of the designation, versus the full white designation more commonly found on the model. It has become one of the most appreciated and recognized representative of the line. The present timepiece is however further graced by a tropical example of double red dial, sporting a deep dark chocolate hue.
Another notable feature of this piece is its "thin" case construction, used by Rolex for a short time at the beginning of the Sea-Dweller production and soon abandoned in favor of a thicker, more resistant case design. Of course this cases are earlier, rarer and much more appreciated by collectors.
The "double red" dial underwent an evolution over time, as typical with Rolex designs. The present version is a "Mark II", characterized by similar font size of the first and second lines applied in vibrant red directly onto the black background, and by the Rolex logo with slightly warped crown tips and a very small "O" at the base of the crown. Mark II dials are usually found on watches with case number around 1.7 million, as in this instance. Mark II dials are known for, at times, showing tropicalization, as in this case. It is an educated guess that the process will continue over time, thus increasing the attractiveness and collectability of the piece.