Gilt 5508 Rolex Submariner

What is there to say about the no crown guard, unpretentious, gilt tool that is the 5508 which has not already been said? The inherent lack a frills or finishing is its inherent charm. The small-crown sub is a cult favorite amongst Rolex collectors and for good reason. The 5508 was the genesis for all modern submariner design. Not just for Rolex, but hundreds of brands. Some prefer the red triangle bezel, but this all-black example is a little more stealthy and dress-appropriate. Then there’s the timeless design which seems able to cast its charm over even the most Rolex-adverse of collectors.

The 5508 was produced concurrently and after the 6536. I seem to recall something about @Misterrolex, James Dowling, quoting that dealers would, in period, allocate an order as a “6536/5508” and one or the other would be given to anyone interested in a small-crown sub. Don’t quote me on that. Whatever the case, the model is a runout of one of the most iconic divers of all time, second to Sean Connery’s 6538.

The 37.5mm case on this example is sharp. It’s dial is completely intact and the all-important exclamation tritium remains fixed strong. It comes on a riveted original bracelet that appears tight. And all serial/stamps are correct. Bezel is said to be original and still has its pearl, but with a service ring.

Find this 5508 here from Bulang & Sons listed as POA.