During the early days of deep sea exploration, Rolex worked with a number of experts in the field, including the Marseille-based maritime company, COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertises). The present watch is part of a batch of approximately 300 reference 1665 Sea-Dwellers made for COMEX between 1977 and 1981 – with engraved issue numbers ranging from 2,000 to 2,300. Distinguished by the boldly printed COMEX logo above the Sea-Dweller signature, and issue numbers engraved to the back case, these watches were issued to working divers.

The present example, with issue number 2012, is extremely early, and features a very rare dial configuration indicating a depth rating of 600 meters instead of the 610 meters found on commercial variants. The dial further stands out for its “rail” configuration, recognizable by the alignment of the “C” of Chronometer with the “C” of Certified below, creating a very pleasing vertical “corridor” (or rail) of space between the last two lines of the designation.

The casebacks were all deeply milled with their corresponding issue numbers, with the earliest examples like the present lot featuring straight Rolex and COMEX logo. Consistent with other “issued” Rolex watches of the era, the inside caseback is inscribed with its full case serial number.

Today, the COMEX Sea-Dweller is a highly sought after vintage tool watch. The watch is in excellent overall condition with a well-preserved dial. The watch is further accompanied by a Rolex International Service Guarantee and UK service receipt from 2005 confirming the originality of this diver’s wristwatch, presenting a rare opportunity to own one of the most sought after and desirable vintage Rolex sports watches.