If you’re looking to invest in a truly collectable watch then a vintage 60s/70s Rolex is a good place to strat. Values can really only head up, as the stock of good condition, original exampls gradually diminishes. Rolex don’t really like classic models and don’t supply spares for 1970s models, so that makes it harder to find vintage Rolexes with their original hands in decent condition, as they can fade, lose the lume and get slightly crumbly with age.

Replacement hands and dial face refurbishment does the job of refreshing the dial, but detracts from the value of course.

So, if you are after a truly exceptional Rolex, then Watches of Lancashire have a got a super rare Sea-Dweller in stock right now.

It’s a 1979 Rolex Sea-Dweller 1665 Rail Dial. Often referred to as the “The Great White” by collectors, this is because of the all white text rather than a touch of red like its predecessor. Manufactured for only two years from 1977-1979 and being the last of the Rolex Sea-Dweller to have a Plexiglass crystal, this watch is extra special.

As Watches of Lancs notes, to find a watch from this era with its box is rare. Mainly due to them being used as tool watches, with documents often being discarded. But to find one in pristine condition is almost unheard of.

Dial Colour: Black Matte

Collection: Sea-Dweller 1665 (Rail Dial)

Gender: Male

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Glass: Plexi

Movement: Automatic Cal 1570

Water Resistance: N/A

Stock No: RLX026

The watch comes as an original complete full set with, outer and inner box, Rolex wallet, full paperwork, service paperwork and swing tags. It also comes with a two year Ian Walsh Watchmaking guarantee. The price is £36,000.