Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback 3372 - Original Silver Dial (1946)

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#51804 - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback in 18K/SS With Original Silver Dial

Year: 1946

Price: SOLD (30/3/17)

Shipping (Within UK): FREE
Shipping (Worldwide): £12

Description

Model 3372 (3 piece case) 18K/SS Bubbleback in beautiful original condition - case in virtually flawless condition. Original numbered dial is in very fine condition for its age. Very rare to find good condition bubblebacks nowadays, especially with such an excellent original dial!

The bubbleback was given its nickname due to the protruding bubble which is actually the rear cover of the case. This was necessary as Rolex early automatic movements needed the extra room for the auto-winding mechanism.

There is a section in the book: "The Best Of Time - Rolex Wristwatches" by James M. Dowling which briefly outlines collecting vintage Rolex watches (page 350). It details the importance of having a bubbleback in any vintage Rolex collection.

Case

Bi-metal 18K/SS gold case is in wonderful original condition with no marks or scratches anywhere. The index marked bezel is also in excellent condition with only minimal defination loss from wear. The rear cover is again, in superb, condition with the toothed edge showing no damage or marks (there is a very slight ding in the case back which can be seen on the image of the rear). Serial number still clearly visible in-between the lugs at 6 o'clock. Serial number is 488xxx and can easily be read with the naked eye. This is a 3 piece case and it's model number is 3372.

The original screw down winding crown is in fantastic condition with both the text and the toothed edge being very crisp and clearly defined. We have checked and compared the movement revision number against the crown along with the inscriptions inside the rear cover and they match perfectly, telling us that they are all original and have always been together. This is a completely original example rather than a put together or 'marraige' watch.

The dimensions of the case are 32mm in diameter (not including crown – 34mm inc.), 13.5mm thick and 38.5mm lug to lug.

Dial & Crystal

The lovely original numbered dial is in excellent shape with a slight but pleasent, even patina. It is very rare to find bubblebacks with original dials and most that do come up are in very poor condition and oftentimes, not really wearable. This one is superb and doesn't look tired at all with a mixture of Arabic numbers and batons. It has its original gold hour and minute hands with a blued steel centre seconds hand. Dial is signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Certified Chronometer" with "Swiss Made" at 6 o'clock.

The low dome crystal is a brand new replacement and is in perfect condition with no scratches or chips of any kind.

Bracelet/Strap

We have fitted a brand new, very high quality Hirsch 'Regent' strap finished in dark brown with gold-filled buckle which we feel completes the watch perfectly.

We are also Hirsch stockists and can change the strap to any from their 'Classic' machine made range, or 'artisanal' range of superb hand-made straps if you desire (subject to cost). Please contact us for further details.

Movement

Completely original automatic movement in excellent condition showing very little wear, running well and keeping excellent time. This is a 6th generation bubbleback movement which was used between 1946-1955.

The movement has been completely overhauled and will continue to give many years of enjoyment and reliable service.

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