RolexSubmariner

Both referred to at the ‘James Bond’ and the ‘Small Crown’, The Submariner reference 5508 was the last Rolex dive watch not to have crown guards. This gives it a true ‘vintage’ appearance with the subsequent reference adopting the modern appearance we still see today. The dial is gilt, meaning that a reverse-printing technique is used, and the markings are actually the underlying brass disk showing through the black coating. This imparts a warm glow to the lettering and ensures the printing will not fade or wear off. The depth rating was added later in the 5508’s development and here is has been printed in white with the meters first.

The 6 o’clock marker has the distinctive ‘Exclamation Point’ luminous material. While the dial material is the original radium, it is believed that the exclamation mark is the first official sign used by Rolex on “swiss” radium dials to show that the radiation has been adapted to new Atomic Energy Commission regulations at the end of the 1950s. The exclamation point appears from 1962 onwards meaning that this dial has lower emissions. The luminous material is remarkably well preserved on both hands and dial and their matching colour is a further indication of originality.

The bezel is a ‘New old stock’ replacement with a ‘Kissing 40’ insert correct for the period. The original bezel, without insert, is also offered with the sale along with a non-Rolex red triangle insert.

The case is in good vintage condition and has not been recently refinished. The case back bears the engraved name of the previous owner. The movement is the tried and tested calibre 1530 which was cleaned and serviced in 2020.

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