Rolex

• cal. 1570 automatic nickel lever movement, 26 jewels, free-sprung mono-metallic balance, adjusted to 5 positions and temperature • black dial, luminescent triangle, dot and baton hour markers, luminescent hands and centre seconds • stainless steel Oyster case, screw-down crown, bi-directional rotating bezel calibrated for 60 units, screw back engraved 022 M.N.68, lug further engraved 022 • case, dial and movement signed

This watch bears case serial number 1763414 and military issue number 022. Automatic movement running while cataloguing. Dial is clean with some signs of ageing to the numerals. Case overall with scuffs and scratches from wear. Reference 5513 between the lugs and case back, both appear clearly. Underside of lug numbered 022. Military numbering to case back - 022 - M.N.68. Inside case back date stamped IV.67. A very rare and highly collectible example for that reference.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Rolex submariner wristwatches were delivered mainly through the ordering of "Commando Hubert unit", in the west region of France. This special marine forces was named after Lieutenant Augustin Hubert, killed in action on June 6th, 1944 at Riva Bella.

Since 1953, Commando Hubert has been a special unit force classified as CASM (Commando Action Sous Marine) Hubert. It is still today the elite diving unit for the French Marine Nationale. Each of its members has to undergo the most extreme and rigorous training to become part of the marine elite corps.

The present watch is believed to be part of the first series of Rolex Submariners delivered to this navy force through an official regional Rolex retailer in the west of France. It is believed that 25 watches were first delivered in 1968, 25 in 1970, 25 in 1973 and finally 25 in 1975.

The inscription both on the case back and on the lug, makes it one of the most desirable military models from Rolex.