ROLEX | SUBMARINER, REFERENCE 5508 A STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET, CIRCA 1960

Dial: giltCalibre: cal. 1530 automatic, 28 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw down case backCase number: 496'860Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding claspSize: 38 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 195 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The watch has been serviced many years ago with signs of dial, bezel and hands being replaced. The case with signs of polishing particularly toward the left. The reference and movement number between the lugs is rubbed. The case back with minor wear throughout and dings particularly toward the lugs, however the milling remains sharp. The bracelet is slightly stretched and with minor signs of polishing. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

Being the last of the James Bond “Small Crown” model by Rolex, the reference 5508 is the last of the Submariner to carry the 100m/330ft depth rating.  Although the present watch has a service dial, it retains a very good appearance - a well-preserved gilt dial with silver fonts and a chapter ring. The designation at the very bottom of the dial indicate its manufacture in 1960s and later. Smaller than modern submariners, the reference 5508 is a very versatile watch that has a timeless design and a rich history, which makes it a natural choice for admirers of vintage timepieces.