Rolex “5508” Submariner

Description

Offered here is an early version of a Rolex “Small Crown” Submariner, Reference 5508, popularized by its use by James Bond in the films of the same name.  This example dates to 1958, and has a radium dial before Rolex transitioned away from radium and applied the luminous material with tritium.  This Submariner is in great vintage condition. The case has been previously polished, but shows beautifully beveled egdes, and is very sharp and thick.  The dial is still extremely glossy, retaining its mirror-like finish, and has minimal wear.  Further, the original radium lume is present on both dial and hands, aged to a pale yellow color.  The bezel and bezel insert is a later service replacement.  Finally, the watch comes equipped on a later Rolex rivet 7206 bracelet, with 80 endlinks.  The bracelet has 12 full links and almost no stretch, and dates to the 2nd quarter of 1968.