Description
Here we have a breathtaking and very rare 18ct Rolex ‘Bubble Back’ Oyster Perpetual, (early automatic) gent’s dress watch from c1947, in immaculate condition. The watch is totally original having been sympathetically and expertly restored to the very highest standards. Note the desirable ‘Thunderbird’ bezel shows excellent definition along with all the lines of the case which are clean and distinct proving this watch has been only lightly used with care.
The Dial
This dial is simply stunning! Satin silver with satin blue minutes and hour tracks.
Signed: ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL, OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED CHRONOMETER,
….. and SWISS MADE on the edged of the dial at 6 o’clock.
This is the original dial which has been restored to the original design, specification and to Rolex factory standard.
The original and restored blued steel hands match the silver blue minutes and hours track beautifully.
All in Superb Condition!
The Case.
This is the original 18k solid yellow gold case with an 18ct ‘Thunderbird’ bezel and 18ct screw down Bubble-Back and the original screw down Rolex crown.
NO scratches NO dents. SUPER FINE Condition! Mid size: 32 mm. without the crown x 39 mm. lug to lug.
Measuring 32mm in diameter not including the original Rolex Oyster screw down crown.
ORIGINAL ROLEX OYSTER SCREW DOWN CROWN signed PATENTED OYSTER
Originally watertight and dust proof, the screw down crown and screw down ‘Bubble-Back’ have not been pressure tested. However one should always take great care to keep any vintage watch clean a dry at all times.
Inside the original 18ct case-back all as it should be, signed with the correct early Rolex scroll and: Geneve Suisse, Swiss 18ct Hallmarks 0.750 18K, Ref. 3372.
Note somehow and almost defying belief, the 18ct case-back remains in immaculate condition, as does the rest of the case.
The original Rolex lens is also absolutely clean, clear and unmarked.
Note: The Bubble-Back is so called due to the bulbous round back needed to accommodate the early automatic movement and rotor which was too large for a standard flat case back when it was introduced.
The Movement
In 1947 this movement was precision rated by the Swiss Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) as Chronometer Grade i.e. Highly Accurate and Highly Reliable.
This is the Original Movement, signed Rolex Perpetual Chronometer, 17 Jewels, Swiss Made, Patented, N°65516.
The movement has been Fully Restored by a Rolex trained Master Watchmaker and is: RUNNING STRONGLY AND ACCURATELY WITHIN 10 SECONDS PER DAY, FULLY and HALF WOUND!
This watch is offered with 12 months warranty*.
*Note 12 months warranty only applicable if the ‘Buy It Now’ price is paid.
The Strap
Not original but a brand new, high quality tan leather strap with golden buckle.
Note if a different colour or different style strap is preferred please let us know and we will do our best to provide one free of charge. A genuine Rolex strap can be fitted at the cost price to us of approximately £180.00
The Box and Papers
Although there are no original papers with this watch, the movement, the case numbers and hallmarks all match, dating the watch to c1947. A detailed written receipt, with written warranty* authenticity guarantee and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The vintage Rolex presentation box shown in the photographs is included in the sale if the list price is paid.
*Note this watch is offered with 12 months warranty if the listing price is paid.
In Conclusion
This very rare and beautiful vintage 18ct Rolex ‘Bubble Back’ in superb condition and running strongly and very accurately.
This is also a highly collectable vintage gold watch from horology’s most famous name which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to wear from time to time and to treasure and enjoy!
This would make a wonderful addition to any Rolex collection and an excellent investment or heir loom piece, especially when kept in such superb condition.
And even though vintage gold Rolex watch prices continue to climb, we still feel good examples are underpriced. As time passes the world market for vintage gold Rolex watches grows, the finite supply means prices will inevitably climb ever higher.
Regarding payment, we are happy to accept Paypal as this is often the quickest and easiest method of payment. However if you choose to pay bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving if fees to you.
If you have any questions please call 020 7727 7095 or 07515 949 250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.
We are able to accept part exchanges.
And lastly please take a look at our other Vintage Gold Watches!
Andrew M via feefo 
3rd December 2024 
JLC1891 
