In 1967 Rolex launched the Sea-Dweller diver’s watch for civilian use, which established a new standard in performance and technology with an incredible depth rating of 2000 feet (610 meters), and the first ever helium escape valve (HEV). The earliest iterations engraved with “Patent Pending Rolex Oyster Gas Escape Valve” on their case backs are highly sought after, while later models like the present features the engraving “Rolex Patent Oyster Gas Escape Value” on the case back. Indeed, after compression dives at such depths, where divers would breathe a mixture of pressurized hydrogen-helium-oxygen, tiny helium atoms would penetrate normal dive watches and pop their crystals out during decompression. Rolex solved this problem by inventing the helium escape valve, which allowed the trapped helium to escape. Between 1967 and 1977, Rolex printed the words “SEA-DWELLER” and “Submariner 2000” in red on two lines on the watch’s dial at 6 o’clock, resulting in the watch being dubbed the “Double Red” years later by aficionados.

The present Rolex Sea-Dweller, bearing the serial number 5’225’814, is fitted with a Mark IV dial with closed “6” numerals and is in excellent overall condition with a sharp, well-preserved case. Its dial is stunning, with its luminous hour markers having aged to a pleasing warm beige hue. Remarkably, it is accompanied with the original guarantee from Heinz Wipperfeld in Berlin, original purchase receipt, and presentation box.

The Sea-Dweller is a sporty and versatile watch that is both highly collectible and suitable for daily wear.