1958 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5508) "Small Crown"

The Rolex Submariner Reference 5508 is an icon and a legend. The 5508 Submariner is the purest representation of the diver's tool watch period. Nicknamed by the watch collector aficionado community the "Small Crown" the reference 5508 and its subsequent model, the Rolex 6536, are easily distinguishable from other "no crown-guard" Submariner references due to 6mm screw-down crown which is much smaller than those outfitted to following models, including the "James Bond" versions made famous by Sean Connery who played James Bond in the 1960s.

This specific example from 1958 is found in downright stunning and very much original condition. The "long 5" red triangle insert is extremely rare and in remarkable condition as is the case of this specific Rolex 5508 Submariner as it retains the original case chamfers and finishing remaining sharp free from polishing or excessive wear. Additionally, the gilt chapter ring dial and gilt hands remain untouched showing some age but remain in extraordinary condition and without much degradation. The Rolex small crown submariners including the ref. 5508 are one of the most captivating value propositions currently in vintage Rolex collecting and are becoming increasingly harder to find due to low original production numbers and increasingly high desirability within the vintage Rolex collector community. Accessibility to prime examples is diminishing and pricing is increasing on the small crowns!