Rolex "Tropical Exclamation 5508" Submariner - Menta Watches- Buy Vintage and Modern Timepieces

Description

Offered here is an incredible 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 1961, and has a radium “exclamation” 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 very glossy, retaining a mirror-like appearance, with light wear/crazing from aging/wear from the radium over the years. Further, the dial has aged to a lovely caramel brown or “tropical” color, and is breathtaking whether viewed indoors or out in the sun (although the whole dial really pops under the sun!). Finally, the original radium lume is present on both dial and hands, aged to a nice yellow color. The bezel insert is a period correct “Long 5” insert, in great condition, aged to a nice blue color. Finally, the watch comes equipped on its original Rolex rivet 7206 bracelet, with 64 endlinks, dated to 1964. The bracelet has 12 full links and almost no stretch.