The Rolex Submariner ref. 1665, particularly the coveted COMEX variant, holds a unique position in the world of horological collecting. Its history, tied to the pioneering work of the French underwater engineering company COMEX, imbues it with a mystique that drives its value to remarkable heights. This article explores the financial performance and current market value of the Rolex 1665 COMEX, examining factors influencing its price and providing insights for potential buyers and collectors.
Rolex Sea-Dweller History & the Genesis of the 1665 COMEX
Before delving into the specifics of the 1665 COMEX, it's crucial to understand its place within the broader Rolex Sea-Dweller lineage. The Sea-Dweller, designed for professional divers operating at significant depths, represents a pinnacle of Rolex's engineering prowess. The ref. 1665, produced from 1967 to 1988, was a significant evolution, boasting improvements in water resistance and functionality compared to its predecessors. Its larger case size and helium escape valve, a crucial feature for saturation diving, set it apart.
The COMEX collaboration marked a pivotal moment. COMEX, a leader in saturated diving techniques, required a robust and reliable timepiece for its divers. Rolex, recognizing this opportunity, produced a special version of the 1665 tailored to COMEX's needs. These watches, often referred to as "COMEX" or "Comex Sea-Dweller" models, feature distinct characteristics that significantly enhance their desirability and value. These include:
* The Helium Escape Valve: A critical component for saturation divers, allowing the escape of helium gas accumulated during deep dives. This prevents the watch crystal from imploding during decompression.
* Markings: The COMEX 1665 often features unique markings, such as the COMEX logo or specific serial numbers, which are highly sought after by collectors. Variations in these markings add layers of complexity to pricing.
* Dial Variations: Dial variations, including different font styles, lume plots, and the presence or absence of certain text, contribute to the price differentiation. Some highly desirable variations are exceptionally rare, commanding significantly higher prices.
* Case and Bracelet: The case and bracelet condition play a substantial role in determining value. Unpolished examples, maintaining their original factory finish, are generally more valuable than those that have been polished, as polishing removes the original patina and character.
Corrado Mattarelli and the COMEX Legacy
The history of the Rolex 1665 COMEX is inextricably linked to the figure of Corrado Mattarelli, a prominent figure in the world of diving and Rolex collecting. Mattarelli's deep involvement with COMEX and his expertise in Rolex watches make his insights and contributions invaluable in understanding the intricacies and value of these timepieces. His expertise has helped shape the collector's understanding and appreciation of the nuances of different COMEX variants, further solidifying their position as highly desirable collectibles.
Rolex Ref. 1665 Comex Sea-Dweller: Price Factors and Market Analysis
The price of a Rolex 1665 COMEX is highly variable, depending on several crucial factors:
current url：https://pajzxa.c171n.com/global/rolex-1665-comex-price-27040