Pre-Owned Rolex Submariner 'Small Crown' 40922131/AS07051

WHY WE LOVE IT

The Rolex Submariner is a classic, and there's a good reason why almost every collector winds up with one in their stash — these are timeless, tough, do-anything, go-anywhere tool watches.

In the world of vintage Subs, early ‘Big Crown’ models are some of the most sought after. With their oversized 8mm, screw-down winding crown, these variants command a massive premium over some of their relatives from the era.

This means that there are some relative 'bargains' to be had!

Take this 'small crown' Submariner for example. This Reference 5508 dates to circa 1962 and features a 37mm stainless steel Oyster case with holey lugs, an acrylic crystal, a signed 'small' crown, a bi-directional rotating bezel with a black insert that has taken on a lovely navy-blue fade, and a glossy black 'gilt' dial with a matching handset.

What's great about these 'small crown' models is that they also possess a thinner case, leaving for a package that is debatably more ballances than a 'big crown.'

Showing signs of honest wear and only light previous polishing, this is a stunning, wearable time capsule of a watch that recalls the heyday of early recreational SCUBA diving and Rolex’s entry into the tool watch world.

OVERALL CONDITION

The case is in excellent condition overall with thick lugs showing sleeve polish and normal wear consistent with age and use. Gloss black 'gilt' dial is in excellent condition showing even patina to luminous elements with matching handset. Bezel insert shows light, even navy blue fade with faint wear and missing pip. Signed 'small' crown. Caseback engraved: "Gregory Burke" & "Kathy 4-8-47 Ann 5-10-71."