The ‘Small Crown' Submariner ref. 5508 was in production from 1958 to 1962 (replaced by ref. 5513) and was one of the last models to carry the "100m=330ft" depth rating with no crown guard configuration. The present example is exceptionally well-preserved with its beautifully aged dial, contrasting polished and brushed finishes, and strong case proportions. The glossy black lacquered dial with gilt chapter ring and Mercedes hands are period correct for a watch dating to 1961, as well as the calibrated bezel to 15 minutes. The Submariner diver’s watch is an icon in the world of horology and this example is a wonderful addition to any collection.
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.
One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.