Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1953 18K Bubble-Back – Sorry Now Sold – 15thMay’17

Description

Here we have a simply beautiful, fully restored Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubble-Back in 18ct yellow gold from 1953. This watch has led a truly charmed life as it is in immaculate condition. This is Rolex model reference 6284 and features the full-sized Bubble-Back, being 34mm in diameter as opposed to the earlier 1940s Bubble-Backs which were all 32mm. The case-back is also a full Bubble-Back, as shown in the photographs it has a bulbous completely round case-back. The further notable features of this watch are its absolutely wonderful white honeycomb dial with arrow-head indices and original Dauphine hands.

The Dial

The simple elegance of this white honeycomb dial is classic early ’50’s Rolex at it’s best. Dauphine hands are complimented by arrow-head hour indices which provides us a beautifully well balanced and simple dial. Of all the dial designs available for this model, this is our favourite and one of the most popular. Honeycomb dials on these early ’50s Bubble-Backs are also rare and highly sought after. This is the original dial which has been restored to the highest standards by our dial restorers who we consider to be the best in the UK.  We have fitted a new Rolex lens just to finish the watch off nicely.

The Case

The full Bubble-Back case here in solid 18ct yellow gold is particularly pleasing. Firstly, the plain bezel compliments the simplicity and elegance of the dial and is in top condition. The rest of the case body, the lugs and case-back are also free of any scratches dings or marks visible to the naked eye, all of which indicate the watch has had very light use. The full Bubble Back screw-down case-back is prone to damage in the form of dents or scratches, but here it is perfect.

Early ’50s Rolex automatic movements required a case with a good deal of depth to cater for the size of the movement. These are known as full bubble-backs. From 1953/54, Rolex gradually introduced smaller movements and so we have transitional cases known as semi-bubble-backs which were followed soon after by movements which were small enough to fit into cases with almost flat case-backs. The diameter of the watch-case is 34mm, not including the Rolex screw-down crown.

Inside the case-back the markings are all correct for a Rolex Swiss made case, including the early Rolex scroll, with Geneva 18ct hallmarks and the case model reference. Based on the model number, the calibre number and the Rolex scroll branding, we estimate the date of this watch to be 1953.

The Movement

This watch carries its original high grade “Officially Certified Chronometer” Rolex Calibre.645 18 Jewels automatic movement. The movement is signed ‘Rolex Perpetual’ and ‘Swiss Made’ and carries the reference numbers F65563 and 05830. Our Rolex specialist watchmaker has overhauled and serviced this movement which involves complete disassembly and inspection and testing of all the component parts and replacement where necessary with original Rolex parts only. The movement has been very carefully calibrated and is running strongly and accurately to within 10 seconds/day! This is no exaggeration and is outstanding for a watch movement of this age. These watch movements are strong and reliable and this watch movement is now ready for many more years of faithful service and is perfectly suited for everyday use. We therefore have no hesitation in offering this watch with 12 months warranty on the movement.

* Please note, vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.

The Strap and Buckle

A new very high quality, dark brown ‘croc’ leather strap is fitted, along with a matching gold plated Rolex buckle. Please note if a different colour or style of strap is preferred, please let us know and we will do our best to oblige free of charge. We carry tan, conker, dark brown, burgundy and black straps in stock, in plain, padded leather, alligator, crocodile or lizard skin.

The Box and Papers

Although there are are no original papers with this watch, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct, dating the watch to 1953.

Detailed particulars will be included with the receipt, along with our 12 months Warranty*.  A separate insurance valuation for the replacement value of this watch will be provided at the time of sale along with our unique ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than totally authentic, or not as described, Vintage Gold Watches of London will offer you a full refund at any time”.

The watch also comes complete with a presentation box as shown in the photographs.

In Conclusion

This is a highly collectible vintage gold watch from horology’s most famous name which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

This is an early and rare example of this iconic watch, which means it is even more exclusive than the modern equivalent which will take a lot longer to recoup its depreciation! This is also ready to wear and totally practical for everyday use. If treated with care, it will make an excellent investment or family heirloom piece.

Even though vintage gold Rolex prices have risen markedly in the past 12 months, we still feel great examples such as this are still undervalued, because as each year goes by, the world market and demand for vintage gold Rolex watches is expanding almost exponentially and so we think prices are destined to climb ever higher in the foreseeable future.

A word on our prices… We always try our hardest to acquire the very highest quality watches we can find, before then restoring them to the highest possible standards. We then offer these at the fairest prices we can, taking into account our pre and post sales care and service. This approach means we will never be the cheapest, but nor will we be the most expensive. Indeed there are some well known stores in West London which are highly successful charging between two to three times the price you see here. We therefore consider our prices to be fair, given the quality of watches we have to offer.

We are happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest method of payment. However if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by UK bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving to you. Similarly if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.

*Note – 12 Month warranty only included if the list price is paid.

If you have any questions please call on Landline 0207 727 7095 or Mobile 07515 949250

Or if calling from overseas on Landline +44 207 727 7095 or Mobile +44 7515 949250

Please note we welcome part exchanges.

Please take a look at our other fine vintage gold watches.

Thank you.