The Rolex Double Red Sea-Dweller (DRSD) is already a highly sought-after watch amongst collectors, representing a pivotal moment in Rolex's diving watch history. Its iconic double-red "Sea-Dweller" text on the dial, coupled with its robust build and impressive water resistance, makes it a legend. However, within the already exclusive world of the DRSD, a further subset exists that commands even greater attention and premium pricing: the thin-case variant. This article will delve into the fascinating world of the thin-case 1665 DRSD, exploring its characteristics, rarity, and the allure that draws collectors to its slender profile.
Thin Case 1665 DRSD: Defining Characteristics and Rarity
The Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller, produced from approximately 1967 to 1978, underwent several subtle yet significant changes throughout its production run. One of the most notable variations is the thickness of the case. While many examples exhibit a more substantial case profile, a select few, often referred to as "thin-case" examples, boast a noticeably slimmer construction. This difference, though seemingly minor, is a crucial factor in determining the desirability and value of a particular 1665 DRSD.
The exact reasons for the variation in case thickness remain a subject of some debate amongst collectors and experts. Some theories point to variations in manufacturing processes or the use of slightly different case materials. Regardless of the precise cause, the result is a distinct aesthetic difference that contributes significantly to the watch's overall appeal.
Identifying a thin-case 1665 DRSD requires careful examination. Direct comparison with a known thick-case example is often the most reliable method. While there aren't definitive measurements universally agreed upon to distinguish thin from thick cases, a noticeable difference in the overall height of the watch is the primary indicator. Furthermore, the lug-to-lug distance can be slightly shorter on thin-case examples. However, it's crucial to remember that these differences are subtle and require a keen eye and potentially specialized measuring tools for accurate assessment.
The serial numbers themselves don't definitively identify a thin-case DRSD. While some collectors have observed a correlation between specific serial number ranges and thin cases, there's no universally accepted serial number range that guarantees a thin case. This adds to the mystique and the challenge of acquiring a genuine example. The observation of two stunning examples with serial numbers in the 2.9xx.xxx range, both featuring IV/67 casebacks, further illustrates this point. The fact that one came with papers and the other without highlights the variability in provenance and condition even within this relatively rare subset.
Rolex Sea-Dweller: A Brief History and the Significance of the DRSD
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