In 1967, Rolex officially introduced the first ever Sea-Dweller reference 1665. Early examples featured a dial with two red lines of texts “SEA-DWELLER” and “SUBMARINER 2000”, earning its nickname the “Double Red” Sea-Dweller. By the mid-1970s, Rolex replaced the double red dials with the “Great White” dial, removing the two lines of red text. Without a doubt, early examples of the “Great White” Sea-Dweller are rare. In production for a mere two years, examples with a “Rail Dial” are certainly elusive and highly sought-after. Manufactured by the Stern company (now owned by Patek Philippe), these rail dials differ from traditional dials manufactured by Singer.

Most notably, the last “E” of “Superlative” and the “Y” of “Officially” are perfectly aligned, as are the “C” of “Chronometer” and “Certified”. This creates a very pleasing and unusual vertical “corridor” (or rail) of space between the last two lines of the designation. Another detail unique to the “rail dial” is the Swiss designation reading “T Swiss T < 25”. No other Sea-Dweller dial presents this designation.

This Rolex Sea-Dweller from 1979 is sure to please discerning collectors, boasting a well-preserved dial with luminous hour markers that aged to a warm yellowish hue. The case is in outstanding original condition with all of its original proportions and lug bevels intact, as it left the factory. From the collection of an important American collector, this exceptional example is offered complete with its boxes, hang tags, and original guarantee dated December 3, 1981.