COMEX models hold a special place in the hearts of vintage Rolex sports watch enthusiasts. During the pioneering days of deep-sea exploration, Rolex collaborated with experts in the field, including COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises), a Marseille-based specialist diving company for the oil industry. This partnership led to the development of modified Submariner reference 5513 models in the mid-to-late 1960s, some of which were equipped with Helium Escape Valves. These early experiments paved the way for two iconic timepieces: the Sea-Dweller, with its thicker case for enhanced water resistance, and the Submariner reference 5514, which retained the thinner Submariner case but incorporated a Helium Escape Valve. These timepieces, marked with "COMEX" on their dials and casebacks, were never available for public sale, making them highly coveted among collectors. The ref. 5514, in particular, has become one of the most sought-after Submariner models due to its rarity and historical significance.

The present example is a stunning representation of the ref. 5514, featuring the COMEX name prominently on the dial and engraved on the caseback, along with the COMEX issue number, 806. Later examples, like this one, display the COMEX engraving around the edge of the caseback rather than straight across. Additionally, this watch features the largest "big numbers" style for the issue number, adding to its appeal.

What truly sets this watch apart is its exceptional condition. The case remains remarkably crisp and sharp, while the matte-black Maxi Dial is virtually flawless, with luminous hour markers that have aged to a warm sandy patina, perfectly matching the original hands. Finding a COMEX model in such outstanding preservation is exceedingly rare, making this an extraordinary opportunity for any serious Rolex collector to acquire a true piece of horological history.