First introduced to the world in 1953, the Rolex Submariner is perhaps the most important diver’s wristwatch ever produced. Throughout its early days, Rolex continued to refine and develop the professional tool watch, hence resulting in an array of references in a rather short span of time. With the first reference 6204 launched in 1953, the other references that followed after in chronological order are as such, 6205, 6536/6538, 6536 and 6536-1. These were also competed via the references dubbed as the “Big Crown” 6200, 6538 and 5510. In 1957, Rolex released the ref. 5508 being the last reference to feature a “100m=330ft” depth rating and also the last to feature a case without crown guards. Dubbed by collectors as the “Small Crown”, the ref. 5508 certainly marked the end of an era for the Rolex Submariner.

The present Rolex Submariner ref. 5508 “Small Crown” features a rare and desirable “underline” glossy black dial. Bearing a seven hundred thousand serial from circa 1962, this is one of the last examples produced before the reference was discontinued explaining the existence of the “underline” on the dial indicating a transition from radium to tritium used as the luminous material on the dial. Adored by esteemed collectors, many believe that the ref. 5508 is the perfect combination between vintage and contemporary. Paired with an attractive and period correct first generation expandable riveted Rolex Oyster bracelet stamped 7206, the present example is certainly an attractive example worthy for collectors to add to their collection of fine vintage timepieces.