Rolex 5508 Exclamation Gilt Submariner
It’s hard to believe there was once a world of Submariners without crown guards. Known among collectors as the “small crown,” the reference 5508 was produced from 1958 to 1962 and marked the final chapter of this elegant, symmetrical design before the introduction of the 5512 and 5513.
For many, a gilt dial Submariner is the ultimate grail—but finding one without crown guards in truly distinguished condition is another story. This particular example features the rare exclamation dial, denoting Rolex’s transition from radium to tritium—a subtle but important marker in the brand’s history.
With a 763,xxx serial and wat appears to be an unpolished case, this example maintains crisp lines and original proportions that are increasingly hard to come by.
The gilt dial is beautifully preserved, showing no signs of the common crazing that plagues most. Its tritium luminous plots are full and bright, perfectly matched with original hands that radiate the quiet charm of untouched vintage.
This is, without question, one of the finest 5508s to surface in recent memory. Finding another Small Crown Submariner in this level of condition isn’t just rare—it’s a tall order.
(Item: INVDBV_47)
Price: $56,500
