Named "Bubblebacks" by watch collectors, due to the heavily domed case backs needed to accommodate the large automatic movements, these were Rolex's first Oyster Perpetual (waterproof and automatic) watches.
Housed in one of Rolex's watertight Oyster cases, this wristwatch originally offered its owner protection against water, dust, and perspiration. Inside the rugged case Rolex put into service their early self-winding so-called Perpetual Chronometer movement, keeping the watch powered by movements of the wrist.
The watch has all original parts down to the dial, all hands, and "Rolex Oyster" winding crown. The silver dial is untouched and has warmed to a light sepia tone, giving it a true vintage look.
The case is in excellent condition with deep unpolished vertical grooves. And the movement is running true.
One of our watchmakers has disassembled it down to its last screw and cleaned and oiled it. Photos of the inside available upon request.
For the finishing touch we have equipped it with a brand new crocodile strap making it ready for immediate enjoyment.
Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. international warranty on the movement and its function, a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.
From the collection of a renowned wristwatch collector and extensive contributor to watch publications.
Note: A published example of this reference can be found in Osvaldo Patrizzi's work Rolex, Collecting Wristwatches, 2001 Edition, Guido Mondani editor, Vol. 1, p. 145.
- Manufacturer: Rolex
- Country of origin: Switzerland
- Serial no.: 393,086
- Year built: c. 1946
- Model: Reference 2940
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Automatic, Subsidiary Seconds
- Designed for: Men
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case condition: Excellent condition with fairly light wear and nice deep unpolished vertical grooves. Clearly retains all of its markings.
- Dimensions: 32mm wide (excluding crown), 38.5mm long lug tip-to-tip
- Dial: Silver (toned to a sepia), signed Rolex, luminous Arabic indexes, outer minute/seconds divisions, loss of printing around periphery, original and untouched
- Hands: Original, blue steel, luminous "feuilles"
- Movement type: Signed Rolex, self winding automatic, Cal. 9 3/4''', rhodium-plated, straight-line lever escapement, self-compensating Breguet balance spring
- Movement markings: Rolex Perpetual, Chronometer, Swiss Made, Patented, Super-Balance
- Band: Crocodile, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn. We also stock lizard and a variety of others straps in various prints, skins, and colors. Please ask us if you're interested.
- Width between lugs: 17mm
- Crystal type: Domed, acrylic, excellent condition
- Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Please email [email protected] for details.
- Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
- Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee
