The inscription "400 1220 M" found on certain vintage Rolex Sea-Dwellers, specifically the reference 1665, represents a fascinating intersection of horological history, professional diving, and the enduring legacy of Rolex's commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater exploration. This seemingly simple marking tells a complex story of collaboration, innovation, and the rigorous testing that defined a legendary timepiece. Understanding the "400 1220 M Schrift" requires delving into the history of the Rolex Sea-Dweller, its relationship with the pioneering diving company COMEX, and the evolution of Rolex's design language.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller, a direct descendant of the Submariner, was introduced in 1967 as a response to the growing demands of professional saturation diving. Unlike recreational diving, saturation diving involves spending extended periods at significant depths, requiring watches capable of withstanding immense pressure and maintaining accuracy over prolonged underwater missions. This is where the "400 1220 M" inscription becomes particularly relevant. It's a testament to the watch's capabilities, a direct reference to its depth rating, and an indicator of its specific lineage within the Sea-Dweller family. Let's break down the meaning:
* 400: This number represents 400 feet, the original depth rating of the early Sea-Dweller models. While subsequent models increased the depth rating, the 400-foot marking on certain 1665 references reflects their early development and testing phases. It's a historical marker, showcasing the watch's initial capabilities before further advancements.
* 1220: This number is less straightforward and represents a more nuanced aspect of the watch's history. It's directly linked to COMEX, the French commercial diving company that played a crucial role in the development and testing of the Sea-Dweller. COMEX's involvement wasn't merely a matter of endorsement; it was a collaborative effort where the watch was rigorously tested in real-world, extreme conditions, providing invaluable feedback for Rolex's engineers. The "1220" likely refers to a specific internal COMEX reference number or a code related to their testing protocols. The precise meaning remains somewhat elusive, adding to the mystique surrounding these specific Sea-Dwellers.
* M: This simply stands for meters, providing the metric equivalent of the 400-foot depth rating. This inclusion highlights the international nature of both Rolex and COMEX's operations, catering to a global audience of professional divers.
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