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View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2289. Oyster Perpetual “Bubble Back”, Reference 3372 | A stainless steel wristwatch with bracelet, Retailed by Serpico Y Laino, Circa 1945.

Rolex

Oyster Perpetual “Bubble Back”, Reference 3372 | A stainless steel wristwatch with bracelet, Retailed by Serpico Y Laino, Circa 1945

Auction Closed

October 21, 07:40 AM GMT

Estimate

100,000 - 200,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Rolex

Oyster Perpetual “Bubble Back”, Reference 3372

A stainless steel wristwatch with bracelet, Retailed by Serpico Y Laino, Circa 1945

Dial: salmon

Calibre: cal. Super Balance automatic, jewelled

Movement number: N5594

Case: stainless steel, screw down case back

Case number: 319’540

Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster Stretch Rivet bracelet and folding clasp

Size: 32 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mm

Signed: case, dial and movement, dial further signed by retailer

Accessories: Rolex travelling pouch

In the early twentieth century as wristwatches rose to prominence, a race was on to solve the problem of waterproofing. Though the invention of the screw down components marked a crucial leap forward, a major problem still persisted: waterproofing the crown. Brands found that clients were unaccustomed to screwing the crown back in after winding the watch, or that repeated usage would eventually shred the seals, which would both compromise water resistance. In 1931, Hans Wilsdorf and his brand Rolex found the answer in the “Perpetual” self-winding movement. This stroke of genius drastically reduced the amount that users would need to interact with the crown of their watches and finally solved the waterproofing problem. These early waterproof “Oyster” Rolexes featured quirky case shapes with case backs that would bulge outward in order to accommodate the thicker automatic movements, earning them their now famous moniker: Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback.

Throughout their 20 year production run, collectors have identified no less than 174 different variations of the Bubbleback family. These variations included case size and design as well as dial layout and colour. The present example of the reference 3372 ticks all the boxes of what makes for a truly rare and exceptional Bubbleback for today’s collecting zeitgeist: not only do we have a 32mm case size, making it one of the larger executions of the series, but housed within is a beautiful and very original salmon dial. The colour oozes vintage flavour, and coupled with the overall aesthetic make it a spectacular wear on the wrist. The cherry on top of the whole package is the Serpico Y Laino retailer signature, a truly rare feature which is sure to further excite any connoisseur. The history behind the model series coupled with the spectacular example presently offered make this lot unmissable for any collector.

勞力士 Oyster Perpetual “Bubble Back” 型號3372

精鋼鏈帶腕錶，由Serpico Y Laino發行，約1945年製

附帶旅行袋子

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."