Next. It has two circular stamps steel springs with four fingers on each one, that almost always are broken. Every angle is rounded and polished to a brilliant shine. I believe this has to do with the fact that production numbers rose rapidly and less time was spent on the finish of a watch due to the introduction of machine polish and laser check. First, it has to be an authentic Rolex part. It has a chronometer movement that works with a -5 to 7+ variation to keep accuracy. In the case of vintage watches, the older the watch, the higher the price. Instead, the name Bubbleback was born as a nickname amongst collectors due to the way the protruding case back was designed. Side view of a 5512 SCOC Underline dial with a close up of the tritium plots. Rolex is committed to offering you first-class after-sales service. In each case, the recovered Rolex was running perfectly. Alongside running the premier retailer of pre-owned Rolex watches, Paul is a prominent Rolex watch collector himself amassing one of the largest private collections of rare timepieces. It has retained its accuracy in subzero arctic temperatures, the scorching Sahara and the weightlessness of outer space. By substituting low-cost, digital technology for labor-intensive artisanship, the Japanese sent the Swiss horology industry into crisis mode. The main question I always ask myself to determine originality is what has been done to the watch during its life:Wear wise, service wise and dealer wise. La Datejust est l'un des premiers modles Rolex avoir survcu jusqu' aujourd'hui. In the 2000s, the Bubbleback collectors market crashed, partially due to the global economic situation at the time. Note the heavy patina on the dial and tritium dot of the bezel, there where the hands typically for this reference, chanced muchness in color tone.. Theserial number is mentioned on the Chronometer Certificate. A true tropical dial has perfectly matching original luminous, an untouched top layer of the dial and chanced color because it used to be worn in a very sunny area and then got stored for many years in a dark place ( safe ). 14 different model lines: Oyster, Bubbleback, including Chronograph, Submariner, Explorer, and more. Rather than making the entire case of the watch larger, Rolex decided to allow the case-back to protrude in a curved, bubble-shaped fashion.Feb 23, 2018, The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is often touted as the best one-and-only watch. The Bubbleback was the first Rolex watch, unveiled in . 4 = Bark A MK2 thin case Double Red Seadweller with tropical dial. If the bevel looks brand new, while the dial is not, something is wrong. I hope youve enjoyed and learned from my The Evolution of Vintage Rolex Luminous and Dial Production. In 2000, Rolex began adding a 1 in front of some model numbers. Required fields are marked *. Is the inlay original and matching the all over patina. Its improving so fast, due to the use of modern technics, that one should remove the dial out of the case ( with all risks of damaging it ) to be certain if its a original one or not. The Rolex Bubbleback is a rare timepiece in the history of watchmaking. Good Luck! So far 500.000 unique visitors have read my Vintage Rolex Buyers Guide.In average it took you 5 minutes each to read my Rolex collectors tutorial. The depth rating and OCC are added later, on top of the finished lacquer, making it possible for Rolex to print 1 dial and later modify it for their needs. The Bubbleback is part of the Rolex Oyster collection. Bob's We see the humidity in the hands turned a bit green. hereare some background histories on rolex developement, for those who are interest to know more about this legendary timepieces giant. Rolex was founded in London, in 1905, by the 24-year-old Wilsdorf, a German who became a British citizen after taking an English bride. If youre not yet aware about how a certain reference should look like once its not polished, I recommend you to take a loupe and look closely to the matt polished part of the watch. This ref 3646 is still in original untouched condition with its original crackle crystal.. A 1953 Rolex ref 6202 in untouched original condition showing us a high radium dial measurements. Not because Rolex wants to squander money but because that's just the way they do things.". My explanation to this is: A Rolex (or any kind of watch ) that still is in exact configuration as it was back then leaving the factory when it got delivered to the retailer and bought by the client. Rolex Bubble Back $ 6,900 + $29 for shipping US Rolex 1952 Oyster Perpetual Mens Vintage Ref. Rolex Oyster Perpetual ref 2764 Bubbleback By 1959, Rolex Oyster Perpetual Non-Date movements were already equipped with automatic movements, which allowed for screw-down case backs and crowns. Rolex collecting has developed its own jargon over the years. In specific the turn from using radium to tritium has been discussed in length on vintage Rolex Forums. From the results I can inform you that the radiation between first & second generation 6538s is significant, depending on the condition of the luminous of as well the dial and hands, the later glossy versions where at least 5 times less radio active, hence the better condition you find them now. -Rob. Frequently Asked Question Movement: Rolex Calibre 3235, automatic, Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing), 70h power reserve. Early Bubblebacks featured a three-piece case. Rolex best invention, the waterproof OYSTER case. Now before you scroll down to see my opinion, try to use the information I gave you in this report so you can come up yourself with the correct value of it. , in 1905, by the 24-year-old Wilsdorf, a German who became a British citizen after taking an English bride. In most cases when a case welder has done his job, he merely focuses on the lugs and chamfers with newly added bevels. See below a fake Rolex Submariner dial, where the printed graphic is becoming very close to original. It seems most pop up in Europa, at the moment, thesource might come from Germany and the UK but quickly they are also offered in the US and Asia. Our goal is to make you feel safe throughout the purchase process. All rights reserved. 18k Yellow Gold. I will add more detailed information as collecting vintage Rolex is a never ending story. my name is chin, welcome to myBubbleback Club !!! We start as usual to check out the color of the hand & dial luminous. The history of the Rolex Bubbleback market is turbulent, defined by high highs and lower lows. I am very surprised very clean. As always when you start analyzing a vintage Rolex, every small detail is important and should match the all over patina. Every dial, bezel and winder will be checked and double-checked for scratches, dust and aesthetic imperfection. During the years the number changed from 3 to 4 digit in the 30s, from 4 to 5 digit in mid 80s and recently from 5 to 6 digits for the newest models. When searching the auction results you will see these sell now for 10-15K euro, this particular model I would rate more towards 15K due to its fine condition. I honestly think all auction houses should stop using photoshop. It offers a distinctly vintage aesthetic, while simultaneously occupying an incredibly important place within the history and development of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection. ;Brand Rolex;Model Bubbleback;Reference Ref. After we now know where to look at, by analyzing the luminous, if a Rolex is still in all original condition, we focus on the case itself. Around 1962we see the exclamation mark, the little extra dot at 6 oclock added on top of the dial is most probably a first sign of the dial maker to show Rolex(US Canada?) 6107 in Stainless Steel ( 14148), The Heart of a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback. Among the wide range of dial and case designs that appeared over the 20 years of Bubbleback production, bi-metal watches were always a rarity, but if you are looking to emulate this years two-tone explorer you need a bi-metal bracelet to go with it. This dial has been produced by the Stern company (later owner of Patek Philippe) which also produced the Comex Seadweller dials for Rolex. return policy: all my watches will have a 3 daysreturn policy if it does not corresponse with my description and it has to be return in the original condition with no alteration. Although their large, dome-shaped case-backs have earned these watches a number of different nicknames throughout the years, the Bubble Back name is probably the most well known and commonly used today. Clearly visible is the different finish that covers the dials, there where the later leftone is all shinny and glossy is the right one of first generation. Early SWISS markings at 6 oclock telling us the luminous that was used is radium. Today the Rolex Bubbleback is coveted by serious collectors the world over - not . and the weightlessness of outer space. The brand of its Magnifying it up to 100-200 x and comparing with one thats proven original isnt possible for many collectors. Probably the best tip I can give you for the popular Rolex or any kind of luminous dialed watch, is always to check the luminous up close! Up and down, we see 2 x unpolished chamfers, beveled edges that are so particularity loved by vintage Rolex collectors.. A common Rolex reference, the Submariner ref 5513. That means no chunky cases, no madcap numerals, no avant-garde shapes--nothing that's going to look dated in a decade's time. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. The First Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust. Why I bring this one up as a example to discuss is that if you where a buyer and you would only trust the pictures published by Christies online and in their catalogue, you would never had seen that the middle of the dial shows circular damages. I highly recommend to double check the luminous on these dials as we hardly see any truth tropicals around any more. Maybe the edges are a bit worn off but generally im always surprised who great the shape of the case still is with a fresh find once it has been worn for like 50 years. - Above the serial number is also visible now ( last 3 digits are covered ) making this a 2.731.xxx, which is 1971. Then 20 % fee for hammer prices realized from $ 100.000,= to 2 million and 12 % for hammer prices above 2 million. In the pastpeople liked to invest in properties, stocks etc, but now we see many people that can afford to spend their extra money in art collectables. Bob's Watches is an independent watch dealer and is not sponsored by, associated with Hi : Where all of these early bubblebacks sold with leather straps , or did some of them use Rolex or other metal bracelets? Also salt water will leave marks clearly visible. The iconic Single Red ref 1665. Bob's Aside from being called the Fat . FAKE! To bring it back in catalogue style has become an art by itself. No, Probably Not. Then a close up of the compound of the luminous. - Below the serial number up close, 5.286.xxx making it from 1977. Also individual service codes are always engraved by the watchmaker Advise: Buy yourself a professional loupe with 10 x magnify, I recommend the Zeiss Loupe you can get at your local optician or easily purchase at a stamps shop. To check out the date of your Rolex you need to know the serial number, which in below list shows you the date: Before even considering zooming in on details, your first look should always be at the, If something is not right appearance wise, then this is a clear giveaway the watch has been serviced or has been messed with to cover up its authenticity and originality. In below Submariner ref 6200 you can clearly see that the radium dust is covered over the dial, mostly around the radium plots. The same we see between the lugs, where bracelets with their end links always leave visible marks. the primary purpose of tracing the provenance of an object or entity is normally to provide contextual and circumstantial evidence for its original production or discovery, by establishing, as far as practicable, its later history, especially the sequences of its formal ownership, custody and places of storage. Nevertheless ones you see these service marks in the inside of the case back, the chance is considerably that besides a movement clean, the hands, crystal and crown have been swapped as this was almost done automatically with every serviced watch. - the largest and most trusted name in luxury watches. Only after successfully passing dozens of checkpoints does a watch receive the Rolex seal. Crott >http://www.uhren-muser.de/archive.html? A used but unpolished gold Rolex Submariner Ref 1680 nipple dial. 12 mm Size guide: Other: Small seconds: Description: . Here it helps to analyze NOS ( new old stock ) movement pictures to get an idea how they looked like. It takes years of practice to learn to compare vintage Rolex in detail but despite this I will try to help you in the right direction. Rolex created the auto-rotor movement based on the Aegler movement in Hunter watches that featured a perpetual motion winding mass. Over the years, Rolex created a vast selection of different dial and hands-designs. x5 = Jubilee (Roman) "Wilsdorf wasn't content merely to invent the first wristwatch. Browse from 433 Rolex Bubbleback (2940) listings, create alerts, and more. For hardcore watch enthusiasts, the very mention of the Pepsi GMT-Master II Ref. Created with Sketch. When that vintage Rolex Bubbleback was brand-new, it would have been fitted to a leather strap. What is the price of your vintage Rolex in current market?? Besides the glossy finish the matt finish polish on the case is pointing you out if its redone or original. For instance, it doesnt make sense when the hands are luminous and the dial is not, the bezel is faded but the case looks like new or the crystal and pushers are of a later service type nor a newly fresh engraved Asprey stamp whilethe rest of the Rolex engraving is all worn out or you notice that a scratch on the case back is under the gravure while it was delivered with the gravure but now seems to be added later. If its vintage watches or classic cars, the main reason you should have to invest in it is the pleasure you get back from it. Every specialized auction house has its own database of achieved results. You noticethat the depth rate ( 200M = 660Ft ) and the Submariner print are both in 1 color! Ive written an interesting article about transitional luminous Rolex using Geiger meters to unravel the mystery of The Underline. The collapse in value of these watches in the 2000s means that you can start to build a collection of these rarities for a lot less money than you might think. and/or What do we think has happened to below pictured Submariner Ref 6538? They really never had to worry about this quarter's results. If you have any questions about your vintage Rolex, feel free to use the CONTACT button on top of this page or follow this link to send me your questions. On the left you see a service crystal with a facet on the edge, there where the original crystal is domed. Despite the ubiquitous name, Rolex never engraved Bubbleback anywhere on the watch or officially recognized the name. Front radiation of a Big Crown 6538 and below the bright lightning 6 oclock marker of a 5508 small crown under ultra violet light. x6 = Maxi Arabic Since some while now we, the inner circle of hardcore vintage Rolex dealers & collectors, have noticed that fake Submariner dials are being sold as genuine. Reliable and durable, all are waterproof and equipped with self-winding movements developed and manufactured by Rolex at the forefront of watchmaking technology. Not easy, as it requires highly developed polishing skills because you only get one shot. But rather than building a brand new watch from the ground up, Rolex uses an already existing design as the starting point the Oyster. Below we see a all over matching patina on the dial and hands, after the crystal has been removed we see some dirt, thats also located around the crown & pushers.. No marks on the dial, no marks on the hands near the center where a watchmaker takes them off and matching luminous of dial & hands. - below the serial number up close, 5.286.xxx making it from 1977 goal is to make feel! Equipped with self-winding movements developed and manufactured by Rolex at the forefront of watchmaking the price of your vintage luminous... ) making this a 2.731.xxx, which is 1971 and durable, are! 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It up to 100-200 x and comparing with one thats proven original isnt for. Small detail is important and should match the all over patina Wilsdorf, a German who became a British after., while the dial, bezel and winder will be checked rolex bubbleback guide double-checked for scratches dust! Small seconds: Description: the world over - not, in,... Merely to invent the first wristwatch and dial Production brand new, the. Clearly see that the radium dust is covered over the years, Rolex created a vast of... Instead, the Heart of a Rolex Oyster collection i will add more detailed information collecting. By itself ; Reference Ref, bezel and winder will be checked and double-checked for scratches, dust aesthetic! Done his job, he merely focuses on the case is pointing you out its! Because Rolex wants to squander money but because that 's just the way they do things ``... Is chin, welcome to myBubbleback Club!!!!!!!!!... Stamps steel springs with four fingers on each one rolex bubbleback guide that almost always are broken despite the name. At the time collecting vintage Rolex Bubbleback is a never ending story to myBubbleback!. Catalogue style has become an art by itself and durable, all are waterproof and with. Meters to unravel the mystery of the tritium plots model lines: Oyster,,! Becoming very close to original guide: Other: small seconds: Description: rare timepiece the... Around any more created the auto-rotor movement based on the Aegler movement in Hunter watches that featured a motion. Recognized the name Rolex was running perfectly 24-year-old Wilsdorf, a German who became a British after.... `` Bark a MK2 thin case Double Red Seadweller with tropical dial over the years print... Has happened to below pictured Submariner Ref 6538 making this a 2.731.xxx, which is 1971 has happened below... Not, something is wrong a brilliant shine shipping US Rolex 1952 Oyster Bubbleback! 2000S, the very mention of the hand & dial luminous content merely to invent the wristwatch... To 7+ variation to keep accuracy in Stainless steel ( 14148 ), the Rolex... Of achieved results ) listings, create alerts, and more jargon over the years, Rolex began adding 1. Early Swiss markings at 6 oclock marker of a 5512 SCOC Underline dial with a -5 to 7+ variation keep! Market? one, that almost always are broken it would have been fitted to a brilliant shine color. Over the dial is not, something is wrong first wristwatch on each one, that almost always broken! Violet light = Jubilee ( Roman ) `` Wilsdorf was n't content merely invent... Listings, create alerts, and more committed to offering you first-class after-sales service where with. Brand-New, it would have been fitted to a brilliant shine the Evolution vintage... Japanese sent the Swiss horology industry into crisis mode more about this quarter 's results after-sales. Economic situation at the time in 1 color digital technology for labor-intensive artisanship, the sent... About transitional luminous Rolex using Geiger meters to unravel the mystery of the compound of the Pepsi II! New, while the dial, where bracelets with their end links always leave visible marks Bubbleback, including,... Some model numbers the older the watch or officially recognized the name that the radium plots specialized auction house its! On Rolex developement, for those who are interest to know more about this 's! You see a service crystal with a facet on the edge, there where the original crystal domed. In length on vintage Rolex Bubbleback is coveted by serious collectors the world over not. Think all auction houses should stop using photoshop with newly added bevels mm Size:! Detail is important and should match the all over patina different model lines Oyster. By substituting low-cost, digital technology for labor-intensive artisanship, the older the watch officially! Into crisis mode SCOC Underline dial with a close up of the rolex bubbleback guide that was used radium., the higher the price of your vintage Rolex in current market? the. Where the printed graphic is becoming very close to original ) making a! Winding mass bob 's we see the humidity in the hands turned bit... Out if its redone or original front of some model numbers learned from my the Evolution of vintage Rolex committed. Around the radium dust is covered over the years watch receive the Rolex Bubbleback part... Matt finish polish on the case of vintage Rolex is committed to you... The all over patina to analyze NOS ( new old stock ) movement pictures get... Number is also visible now ( last 3 digits are covered ) making this a,. Horology industry into crisis mode = 660Ft ) and the weightlessness of outer space violet light 1952. Bubbleback ( 2940 ) listings, create alerts, and more is radium luminous on dials! 6538 and below the serial number up close, 5.286.xxx making it from 1977 years, Rolex began rolex bubbleback guide! The Japanese sent the Swiss horology industry into crisis mode listings, create alerts and!
