Rolex Stainless Steel Oyster Perpeptual Bubbleback 9K Yellow Gold

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#52190 - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback in 9K Solid Yellow Gold With Stunning Black 'California' Dial & Black Alligator Strap

Year: 1958/59

Price: SOLD (18/4/16)

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

Description

Model 3131 (3 piece case) solid 9ct yellow gold Bubbleback. Fantastic condition in virtually flawless condition. Quite rare in 9k as many were 18k and as such, are considerably more money. This one has that lovely vintage gold lustre not seen in modern gold watches.

The bubbleback was given it's 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

Solid 9ct gold case which is in wonderfull, original condition with no marks or scratches anywhere. Not an overly-polished example. Lovely domed, smooth bezel is in excellent condition and the rear cover, again, in superb condition with the toothed edge showing no damage or marks of incorrect entry. Serial number is 586xxx. This is a 3 piece case and its model number is 3131.

The original screw down 'Oyster + Patent' winding crown is in fantastic condition with both the text and the toothed edge being very crisp and clearly defined.

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 very attractive and sympathetically restored black 'California' dial is a real beauty. Recently re-finished, it has a mixture of Roman & Arabic Numerals and retains the original 'pencil' hands with contrasting red seconds hand. Dial is signed "Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Chronometer" with "Swiss Made" at 6 o'clock. The low dome crystal, which was replaced at recent service, is in perfect condition with no scratches or chips.

Bracelet/Strap

We have fitted a brand new, high quality Hirsch 'London' Alligator strap finished in black which we feel complements 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.

The movement has been completely overhauled prior to being offered for sale and will continue to give many years of enjoyment and reliable service.

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