Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Mk2 Patent Pending Tropical Dial

Baron - Mr Red · 2019-01-20T03:18:54Z

Explore the Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Mk2 Patent Pending with its stunning tropical dial transformation and rarity debate. A must-see for vintage Rolex collectors.

Baron - Mr Red

WPS member · Rolex forum

15 replies2402 views4 photos

Baron - Mr Red shares his stunning Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Mk2 "Patent Pending" a decade after acquisition, highlighting its remarkable tropical dial transformation. His post delves into the ongoing debate among collectors regarding the true production numbers of these rare Mk2 references, making a case for their enduring appeal and collectibility.

15 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

It has been a long time since I took some fresh pictures of my 1665 Mk2. I have owned this watch for almost a decade now. When i bought it, the dial was black with the very slightest hint of dark brown. 10 years later, as has happened to many Mk2 1665s, the dial has turned a gorgeous and even brown.

Debates continue on just how many patent pending Mk2 were made. Once it was believed that only 100 were made. I suspect the number is closer to 300, but not many are in the condition of this one.

A good vintage Rolex to own for me. It has been a good 10 years......

What I particularly like is the evenness of the brown.

About the Rolex great white Ref. 1665

The Rolex Reference 1665, known as the "Great White," is a specific iteration within its model family. This particular reference is distinct from the Reference 1680, which the collector notes as a separate model undergoing a makeover.

This example features a case described as being in good condition. The movement is a caliber 1570. The dial is a servicedial with Luminova, marked as a Tritium dial.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking specific variations within the Rolex lineup. The presence of a servicedial with Luminova, marked as Tritium, is a notable characteristic for those interested in dial variations.

Specifications

Caliber: 1570, 1575

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 610m (2000ft)

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The Mk2 Sea-Dweller dials, particularly the "Patent Pending" variants, are known for their tendency to develop a uniform caramel brown tropical patina over time, a highly sought-after characteristic.
There are multiple variations of the Mk2 Sea-Dweller, including "Patent Pending," "thin," and "regular" versions, each exhibiting unique aging properties.
The evenness and beauty of the tropical brown patina on these vintage Rolex dials are a significant factor in their desirability among collectors.
The rarity of the "Patent Pending" Mk2 1665 is a subject of ongoing discussion, with estimates ranging from 100 to 300 pieces, making well-preserved examples particularly valuable.

The Discussion

crown comfort

Jan 20, 2019

It doesn't get much better than this in vintage Rolex world! [nt]

amanico

Jan 20, 2019

Joe, I never saw a better, prettier specimen than yours. Just sublime. [nt]

Baron - Mr Red

Jan 20, 2019

It is ageing very well [nt]

FabR

Jan 20, 2019