Rolex Submariner 5508 "James Bond" Tropical, 1962 Men's Vintage Watch

An extremely rare Rolex Submariner reference 5508 aka "James Bond" with a stunning gilt tropical dial and "exclamation point" lume dot at 6 o'clock. The Rolex Submariner 5508 is an important reference in the history of the Rolex Submariner line, marking the move towards standardisation of the model.

Produced between the late 1950's and early 1960's, the Rolex reference 5508 introduced the 55XX reference format that persisted until the 1990's. It was also the first to use dials with only dial markers (compared to some earlier Submariner's that featured Explorer-style dials with 3, 6, and 9 indicators). Furthermore it was also the first to add 15 minute markers to the bezel. 

Our favourite feature (or lack thereof) is the clean lines of the case owing to the lack of crown guards that would become standard additions for later references. 

Condition:

• Case: Excellent condition for its age. Engraved with the previous owner's name;
• Dial & Hands: Stunning original gilt dial with "exclamation point" at the 6 o'clock marker. Hands in good condition with intact lume;
• Bezel & Insert: Currently fitted with a replacement bezel and aged insert. Original bezel is also included and could be used with a new tension spring (see photo). These original bezels are currently selling in the second hand market for over £3k!
• Movement: Rolex calibre 1530 automatic movement recently cleaned and serviced in excellent condition.

An excellent opportunity to own a piece of Rolex history with a beautifully aged example of the Rolex Submariner 5508 "James Bond"!