1665 ‘transitional’ MK4 DRSD

This Double Red Sea Dweller (DRSD), with a case number starting with “528,” falls towards the end of the production run for the Double Red Sea-Dweller series. This particular reference is known for its Mark IV dial, which is one of the last variations of the DRSD before Rolex transitioned to the “Great White” models in 1977. Mark IV dials are known for their specific fonts, spacing, and warm tritium hour markers, all adding to the character of the timepiece. Because of the above precise characteristics, the last batch of 1665 DRSD’s are frequently referred to as ‘transitional’ Sea-Dwellers.

The key identifiers for an all original DRSD of course includes two lines of red text on the dial: “SEA-DWELLER” and “SUBMARINER 2000.” Other tell-tale features are the huge domed acrylic crystal, the helium escape valve, and a matte black/anthracite dial with tritium (luminous) markers. A Mark IV dial is the most common dial used in the last year of production of the DRSD. DRSD’s are also known to have their individual case-back numbers engraved inside the case-back, however this is not the case with the last batch of these timepieces. The absence of the individual case number engraved inside the case back is not necessarily an issue, as these engravings were not always consistently applied during late production of these last batches of DRSD’s.

Now, more about the watch itself; As shown in the photos above, the dial is in excellent condition with no signs of wear or moist damage. As a result, the Tritium on the hour-markers has aged flawlessly, resulting in a gorgeous yellow/vanilla color. The two lines of red lettering at the bottom of the dial are bright and fresh, as is the remainder of the dial’s printed text. The original set of hands nearly has the same attractive yellow/vanilla discolored Tritium as the hour-markers, although it seems slightly darker to the naked eye. The stainless steel case and Oyster bracelet are exceptionally sleek and crisp, with minimal signs of wear. The original serif bezel insert, which was previously black, now displays a deep blue Navy color, with a perfect Tritium ‘pearl’ inside the triangle at the 12 position. The watch is worn on its original 93150 Oyster bracelet with 585 end-links and a clear VB clasp code, dating the bracelet back to 1977 – an overall perfect match. As can be seen in certain photo’s above, this DRSD is accompanied by its original punched warranty (sold by Watches of Switzerland, Edinburgh UK) Rolex International Service Guarantee (Rolex UK) the Watches of Switzerland LTD service booklet from the 1980’s (Edinburgh branch) and the Rolex chronometer booklet, Rolex folder and Rolex service instructions.

This 1665 ‘transitional’ MK4 DRSD was thoroughly inspected for its timestamp, movement condition, gaskets, case construction, etc, after having been earlier serviced by one of our colleagues in Asia. Not to mention a comprehensive check-up was done, making sure this watch adheres to the general strict requirements that WatchWorks applies to the watches we offer. She will be sold with our extensive two-year warranty.

reference: 1665/0 (DRSD)
case number: 528XXXX
year of production: 1978
case diameter: 40mm
movement: self-winding, Rolex caliber 1575
box and papers: yes

Price: € 42.500,-