Rolex

• cal. 1570 nickel lever movement, 26 jewels • black dial, luminescent dagger and baton indexes, luminescent hands, sweep center seconds, faded orange arrow-form hand corresponding to 24-hour indication on bezel • bezel calibrated for 24 hours, screw-down crown with protective shoulders, screw back • case, dial and movement signed • stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The inside of the case back is stamped 1655, as well as between the lugs. The serial number is 5365771. The luminescent finish on the dial has faded as mentioned in the description, with some very minor deterioration of the finish as well. The case shows scuffs and some pitting to the case back from moderate wear.
"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."

With punched certificate dated December 24th, 1978, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

This model, Ref. 1655, was launched by Rolex in 1971. Today, it is known to collectors as the 'Steve McQueen'. It is interesting to note how aged and faded the secondary hour hand is on this watch. These hands left the Rolex factory with a reddish hand that over time would typically fade to orange. Some, such as the present lot, would fade even further, until that hand is light yellow or nearly white. Collectors refer to these models as 'Albinos'.

For a discussion of the history of the model, see Skeet, M. & Urul, N., Vintage Rolex Sports Models, p. 73 and for a similar example, see p. 85.