Rolex. A Fine and Rare Stainless Steel Automatic Diver's Wristwatch with Gilt Dial, Center Seconds and Bracelet
Rolex. A Fine and Rare Stainless Steel Automatic Diver's Wristwatch with Gilt Dial, Center Seconds and Bracelet

Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual, 100m=330ft, Submariner, Ref. 5508, Case No. 489'089, Circa 1958

Details
Rolex. A Fine and Rare Stainless Steel Automatic Diver's Wristwatch with Gilt Dial, Center Seconds and Bracelet
Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual, 100m=330ft, Submariner, Ref. 5508, Case No. 489'089, Circa 1958
Movement: Automatic, Cal. 1530, 25 jewels
Dial: Black, luminous dot, dagger and baton numerals
Case: Stainless steel, screw back, black bezel, inside case back stamped 5508 and 111.1958, 37mm diam.
Bracelet/Clasp: Rolex Oyster bracelet and deployant clasp, stamped 2 69 and 7206 and 80 to the endlinks, overall approximate length 8 inches
Accompanied By: A Rolex Guarantee dated May 23, 1962, a Rolex presentation box and Rolex presentation anchor

Lot Essay

The present Rolex wristwatch is a stunning example of the reference 5508, the upgraded version of reference 6536/1, depth rated to 100 meters (330 ft), the case without crown guards. In production from 1957 until circa 1961, the dial correctly displays the signature Rolex and the words Oyster Perpetual and Submariner in gilt while the depth rating of 100m=330ft is white.

On closer inspection of this attractive timepiece, one will notice that the dial is turning a lighter black/brown due to aging and a sought-after 'spider' pattern has developed on the dial over the last 50+ years. Combined with a faded grey bezel, this watch emulates full character and charm that is only found on well-preserved Rolex sports watches from this era. Furthermore, this watch is offered with its original Rolex Guarantee and presentation box, an exceedingly rare occurrence for collectors.

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