Vintage 1946 stainless steel Rolex Bubbleback reference 2940

Here is such a stylish vintage Rolex Bubbleback watch that was made in 1946 and will always be such a wonderful conversation starter.

The Rolex Bubbleback was the first watch that made by Rolex to have a fully automatic winding system, that due to a relatively thick movement resulted in it protruding out the back of the watch resulting in a case back that was not flat like today, rather it has a slightly bulbous shape, hence it earned the nickname “Bubbleback”.

The Bubbleback was also fitted with a screw-down crown, which along with its threaded caseback, now made the watch resistant to water, thus allowing Rolex to market the Bubbleback as a waterproof watch. Having said that, even though the seals have all been replaced during servicing, it is not advisable to take a watch of this vintage swimming underwater.

The stainless steel case measures 31mm across plus the Rolex screw-down crown, and although smaller than today’s standard, when it was released, the Bubbleback was marketed as a gents watch, although today it will suit a man as well as woman. An interesting feature of this case, is the slightly hooded lugs at each end of the watch, which can be seen as a straight bar section between the lugs instead of the normal curve of the case being visible.

The dial is all original and untouched and displays not only index markers, but very stylish Roman numerals. With a patina that is borne from age, the dial gives it that great look so often sought after in vintage watches.

Inside the fully automatic movement runs beautifully and comes with our twelve month warranty, and this Rolex Bubbleback will be perfect for any lover and collector of vintage watches.

Stock# W1731cc

Maker: Rolex

Model: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback reference 2940

Circa: 1946

$Sold.