Rolex Submariner (No Date) Ref. 5508 “Small Crown” Tropical Dial
Basic Info
Listing code : KZ8F03
Brand : Rolex
Model : Submariner (No Date)
Reference number : 5508
Dealer product code : RK-210
Movement : Automatic
Case material : Steel
Bracelet material : Steel
Year of production : 1958
Condition : Fair
(Obvious signs of wear or scratches)
Scope of delivery : No original box, no original papers
Gender : Men's watch/Unisex
Location : Switzerland, Luzern, Schweiz
Price : CHF32,800
Availability : Item is in stock
Caliber
Movement : Automatic
Caliber/movement : 1530
Number of jewels : 17
Case
Case material : Steel
Case diameter : 37 mm
Water resistance : 10 ATM
Bezel material : Steel
Crystal : Plexiglass
Dial : Black
Dial numerals : No numerals
Bracelet/strap
Bracelet material : Steel
Bracelet color : Steel
Clasp : Fold clasp
Clasp material : Steel
Rolex Submariner Ref. 5508 “Small Crown” Tropical Dial
We are proud to present one of the most pleasing, yet recognizable aesthetics ever produced by Rolex: The mighty Submariner reference 5508.
No wonder the Submariner adorned the wrists of luminaries such as Che Gevara, Jacques Cousteau or even agent 007, portrayed by Sean Connery in 1962’s Dr. No.
With a brief production that spanned only four years, the present reference 5508 was the heir to the legendary James Bond reference 6538 which was the last of its kind to carry a 100m depth rating and no crown guards.
When it comes to a brand as cult as Rolex and a perpetually evolving lineup as the Submariner, each small tweak weighs a ton, especially when it comes to the ending of a production chapter and the beginning of another era… This is why the reference 5508 will always have a place in the hearts, and on the wrists of a true collector.
Please read the condition report carefully and refer to the high-resolution pictures to help you assess the overall condition of the watch.
MODEL / REFERENCE: Rolex Submariner reference 5508. The serial number and case back date its production date to the third quarter of 1958.
DIAL+HANDS: The gorgeous ‘Swiss only’ and ‘Meters first’ dial has gracefully acquired a unique tropical patina that’s very reminiscent of the crema foam on top of your hot morning coffee. The white and gilt imprints have aged as well but remain intact all the way to the chapter ring. The dial does not show any readings on the Geiger counter.
The large markers and iconic Mercedes hands are correct and intact. They have aged to acquire a matching “mocha” color that beautifully complements the dial’s shade. They have been probably relumed somewhere in the past.
CRYSTAL: The acrylic crystal is in very good condition with light visible wear.
CASE: The 37mm Oyster case remains strong with sharp lines and well-defined bevels along the thick, even lugs. It still retains its correct finish and shows some battle scars, most notably on the bottom right lug. It goes without saying, this diver was not a safe queen by any means.
The bi-directional bezel with Aluminum insert has also seen its fair share of “action”. It started to tropicalize and displays commensurate wear marks. Due to the absence of red triangle on this 1958 example, the bezel, with its luminous pearl, are likely a later replacement.
CASEBACK: Signed Oyster case back that bears the period correct stamps and nomenclature on the inside.
CROWN: The original, 6mm “Brevet” crown closes securely and operates as intended.
MOVEMENT: The self-winding Cal. 1530 is in full working order and keeps good time.
BRACELET: Rolex Oyster Riveted bracelet ref. 7206 with a signed clasp stamped 4/71, and 80 end-links. It appears to be correct but later to the watch.
ACCESSORIES: Saffiano Leather Watch Roll.
WARRANTY: We guarantee the authenticity of the watch. We also provide a 12-month guarantee for the correct function of this timepiece. All guarantees are subject to the General Terms and conditions.
Please feel free to ask questions, we will be glad to answer. Virtual or face-to-face viewing is available by appointment.Shipping: insured and registered parcels by Swiss postal service, DHL or Fedex.
Terms of sale:
The large, clear unaltered pictures are an important part of the description. Please look carefully and feel free to ask questions.
We check the watch to be certain it runs when listed and we re-check before shipping. There is no warranty on the accuracy of the watch. Please note that vintage watches are in general not considered waterproof.
Returns only accepted within 3 days of receipt if the watch is not as described and pictured and it is returned in the same exact condition as it was sold. Refunds will only be made upon a full inspection and will amount to the purchase price minus shipping and handling costs. Buyer is responsible for the return postage, insurance, and safe delivery of the watch back to me.
Import duties, taxes and charges (typically collected upon delivery or pickup) are the buyer's responsibility and are not included in the item price or shipping charges. Please check with your country's customs office prior to bidding/buying to determine what these additional costs will be.
