The present Rolex Sea-Dweller ref. 1665 was presented to COMEX diver Joe Putnam for his part in the daring rescue of two trapped North Sea divers, a feat for which he was awarded the Queens commendation for brave conduct. As documented in the accompanying copy of "Forward" dated February 1981 detailing the Stena Seaspread accident, the rescue took place in January 1981, when the diving bell from the Stena Seaspread was stricken at a depth of 400ft, its umbilical line severed, and two divers relying on emergency life support.

Putnam was the diver to reach the stranded bell and the decision to make a “through water rescue” was taken, the world’s first to be conducted at depth, with the “wet transfer” successfully conducted under extreme conditions of icy cold, and strong currents. The present watch was engraved and presented to Mr Putnam to commemorate the rescue and his Royal commendation, although Joe Putnam Junior notes with amusement a common misspelling of the family name on the case back. Continuing to use his COMEX branded issue watch for work, the present watch has been well cared for in the intervening years, retaining its original MK III dial, with beautifully patinated Tritium lume, a thick, crisp case that shows no sign of heavy wear or polishing and its dedication remains deeply engraved for posterity.