DESCRIPTION:
WW - Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback "Prototype," circa 1931, 31mm x 39mm to lug tips, 16mm wire lug width, original 18K yellow gold screw back Oyster case marked "P," black leather strap, original two-tone silvered 4 quadrant dial with black painted Arabic numerals, 18J, 8 3/4" full instruction prototype movement, s#5399 with matching 399 stamped on wire lug, triple signed. This watch functions a little differently than later watches as one can overwind it if one's not careful, something that was later rectified in all further automatics with a slipping bridle. This particular watch was sold to the current consignor by the internationally recognized Rolex expert James Dowling. For those who collect vintage bubblebacks there can be no better piece to round out your collection.
CONDITION:
Mvt: Running, excellent-plus cosmetic mvt condition overall, hardly any oxide, very light spotting to rotor and plates; fine-plus dial with light discoloration and ample surface spotting; blued steel hands show ample oxide; polished case shows light wear, small solder repair on wire lugs typical of watches of this era, very light ding on the back of the case; period correct Oyster signed crown shows very little wear, good threads; good crystal; resealed for auction.
ESTIMATE:
$5000
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$10000
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