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Lot Essay
It is extremely uncommon to find examples of the COMEX Sea-Dweller reference 1665 preserved in such remarkable condition. The watch's exquisitely aged luminous accents have acquired a uniform, warm patina that perfectly matches the dial and adds to its vintage appeal and authenticity.
One of the most sought-after Rolex models ever given to COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertise), the first deep-sea diving organization founded in Marseille, is the Sea-Dweller reference 1665. Using COMEX's patented helium escape valve (HEV), which became a distinguishing characteristic of professional diving watches, Rolex and the company began working closely together in the late 1960s to create specialized timepieces that could withstand high underwater pressures.
In addition to the HEV, these models are distinguished as genuine professional tools by the engraved caseback that displays the unique COMEX issue number. Additionally, a lot of examples have 'COMEX' signed dials, which are only found on pieces that are issued by the company. The desirable 'rail' dial, so named because of the exact vertical alignment that separates the text 'Superlative / Officially' on the left and 'Chronometer / Certified' on the right, is present on the current example. This gives the dial a balanced, 'rail-like' appearance that is characteristic of mid-production 1665 models.
COMEX-issued Rolexes were exclusively professional instruments that were provided to divers directly as part of their official gear and were never offered for sale to the general public. The fact that each diver had to sign a Certificat de Réception after obtaining their assigned watch served to emphasize the uniqueness and historical significance of these remarkable timepieces.
One of the most sought-after Rolex models ever given to COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertise), the first deep-sea diving organization founded in Marseille, is the Sea-Dweller reference 1665. Using COMEX's patented helium escape valve (HEV), which became a distinguishing characteristic of professional diving watches, Rolex and the company began working closely together in the late 1960s to create specialized timepieces that could withstand high underwater pressures.
In addition to the HEV, these models are distinguished as genuine professional tools by the engraved caseback that displays the unique COMEX issue number. Additionally, a lot of examples have 'COMEX' signed dials, which are only found on pieces that are issued by the company. The desirable 'rail' dial, so named because of the exact vertical alignment that separates the text 'Superlative / Officially' on the left and 'Chronometer / Certified' on the right, is present on the current example. This gives the dial a balanced, 'rail-like' appearance that is characteristic of mid-production 1665 models.
COMEX-issued Rolexes were exclusively professional instruments that were provided to divers directly as part of their official gear and were never offered for sale to the general public. The fact that each diver had to sign a Certificat de Réception after obtaining their assigned watch served to emphasize the uniqueness and historical significance of these remarkable timepieces.