282. Rolex
A very rare stainless steel wristwatch with sweep centre
seconds, black lacquer ‘exclamation’ dial and bracelet
勞力士，非常罕有，不銹鋼自動上弦鏈帶腕錶，配中心秒針及黑色漆錶盤，
型號5508，1961年製
Manufacturer
Year
Rolex
1961
Reference No.
Movement No.
Case No.
Model Name
Material
Calibre
5508
85’165
763’059
Submariner
Stainless steel
Automatic, 1530,
26 jewels
Bracelet/Strap Stainless steel Rolex
Oyster bracelet, 170 mm.
maximum length, end
link stamped 7206
Clasp/Buckle Stainless steel Rolex
folding deployant clasp
stamped 4.68
Dimensions
38 mm. diameter
Signed
Case, dial and
movement signed
Estimate
HKD 120,000-250,000
USD 15,000-31,000
Literature
For another example of a reference 5508 with
‘exclamation’ dial, please see 100 Superlative
Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, page 186.
HK_WATCHES_MAY16_330-389.indd 343
Reference 5508, the ‘small crown’
Submariner, was introduced in
1958 and ceased production in
1962. This reference was the last
model to carry the 100m depth
rating. This example has a gilt
chapter ring, Mercedes hands,
and a glossy lacquer dial which is
correct and all these attributes are
in excellent condition.
This watch is particularly rare as
it displays an exclamation mark
at 6 o’clock, which collectors
identify as signifying a lower
radium amount. By this time,
Rolex realized the health hazards
of using radium on their dials, and
gradually switched to tritium. The
case and lugs are particularly thick
on this example, and the watch
also carries the correct bezel
with the individual first 15 minute
markers. The bezel is furthermore
still retaining its pearl.
22/04/16 16:09