1947 Rolex OP Bubbleback 18K Orig. Expandable Bracelet Ref. 3131

The Bubbleback - Bubblebacks were introduced around 1930 when Rolex already has had the breakhtrough to create a watertight case in 1927 but this was big, it was a waterproof Rolex with automatic winding movement. The Bubbleback impersonates the iconic Oyster case in the purest form, simple and timeless, yet iconic. Over the next decades they have been produced in endlesss case, dial and bracelet configurations. We heard that in the 1980s some Bubblebacks were more expensive than a Paul Newman Daytona, much more expensive. This 18K yellow Gold example dates back to 1960 making it astounding 60 years of age. It is retained in great condition with a strong case and a beautifully patina'd dial. One reason why this very example stands out from the crowd is not only the condition of the watch but the original uber rare Expandable Oyster bracelet. The Mecan signed bracelet is in incredible condition and does not show much stretch from age, further is very long where most of these usually have been sized and are missing links. With a size of 32mm for the reference 3131 this is a real old School Oyster and looks great on small and medium size wrists, the expandable bracelet is a big big win for this watch.