Amongst one of the most sought after variants of the legendary “Bubbleback” series, the present reference 3599 with rigid hooded lugs is a true stand out. Rolex’s iconic “Bubbleback” gets its name from the protruding rounded case back designed to accommodate their patented self-winding movement and rotor. The reference 3599 is defined by its unusual case design featuring a flat cylindrical bezel of considerable width and “hoods” covering the open space normally found in between the lugs.
The first Bubbleback models were introduced in the early 1930s and production continued for approximately 20 years. Similar to the standard “Bubbleback” watch, which came in many variations, the “hooded” examples had various finishes on the hoods from smooth to ribbed, engine-turned to vertical stripping. This design concept made a visual impact, and as the present model demonstrates, the watch grows in size and presence, rendering a striking appearance.
The present watch is enhanced by its stunning and exceptionally rare two-tone champagne and black dial with Arabic numerals. This reference 3599 is in spectacular condition, with powerful case, superb lugs and perfectly crisp Rolex crown and numbers stamped in the case back. Its overall condition suggests the watch spent more time in a protected environment than on the owner’s wrist.