Introducing the bubble back, which is still popular as an antique vintage model of Rolex.

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What is bubble back

Since its founding in London in 1905, Rolex has produced hand-wound wristwatches.
In 1933, Rolex developed and released the world's first waterproof self-winding watch.
The model is called a bubble back as a nickname in the United States.

The bubble back is actually the Oyster Perpetual, but since the self-winding unit was layered on the hand-wound movement, the thickness increased inevitably, and the conventional back cover could not be used. .
Therefore, Rolex developed a back cover with a bulge and thickness like a bubble.
It has been active since its release in 1933 until around 1955, and because of its unique shape, it is still extremely popular with Rolex fans.

Bubble back history

Bubble back is classified up to the 6th model.
Let's take a look at the features of each model.

1st model

From 1933 to 1935 is the 1st model of bubble back.
Equipped with the caliber 8-3/4 Hunter, the cover that covers the movement has a disassembly manual (instructions), prepared for craftsmen who see bubblebacks for the first time.

It also has a slotted throttle hand, a feature found only on the 1st model.

2nd model

The 2nd model released in 1935 has basically the same structure as the 1st model, but due to the penetration of bubble backs and the rapid decrease in the frequency of failures due to the increase in accuracy, there is no need for a disassembly manual, and there is also a slot for the adjustment needle. It has become a simple finish.

3rd model

The 3rd model manufactured from 1941 to 1943 was equipped with the caliber 9-3/4 Hunter, and the increased balance greatly improved accuracy.
Caliber 9-3/4 Hunter boasted absolute precision at the time, as it lasted until the end of production.

4th model

Released in 1943, the 4th model was officially certified by the Swiss Chronometer Certification Association*, and its worldwide credibility has risen dramatically.
* Only watches that have passed strict inspection standards by the Swiss Chronometer Certification Association COSC (Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres), an international accreditation body, are given the title of "Chronometer".

Accuracy was investigated for 15 days under the conditions of 5 posture differences and 3 temperature differences assuming actual use. Since it is said that around 3% can clear that the error is within the standard range, you can imagine that the standard is quite high.

Since each watch is inspected individually, even watches of the same model may pass or fail. One certificate will be issued for each precious watch that overcomes this hurdle.

5th model

The 5th model, released in 1945, had the word Perpetual* engraved on the rotor, and the Perpetual name began to spread widely from the bubble back.
The number of index types and case materials increased, and the popularity of the bubble bag reached its peak.
* Perpetual in Rolex is a self-winding function that does not require winding the mainspring.
The Perpetual was patented in 1932 and licensed the following year in 1933.

6th model

The 6th model, which was announced in 1946, completely changed the conventional design, and made improvements in various points, such as making the rotor incline two stages.
Due to this structure, the shape of the back cover becomes a beautiful round shape, and it draws a gentle shape like a plump bubble suitable for a bubble back.

The 6th model was the last model of Bubbleback, and until production ended in 1955, this model was used in a wide variety of ways, from orthodox to unique.

3 recommended bubble bags

We will introduce 3 recommended models from such a bubble bag.
Of course, we have many other items in stock, so if you are interested, please check here.
Bubble bag stock list

ROLEX / 4486

The dial is original. The crown is the best gem carved with a cross on the "ROLEX OYSTER", which has been a long-seller for 10 years since 1945 and has continued to fascinate fans.
Made in the 1940s, case size 24mm, individual for women.

ROLEX / 3133

The dial is original. A third-party rice bracelet is attached.
A rare flying Arabic numeral dial made in the 1940s.
stainless steel x pink gold

ROLEX / 3133

The dial has been redone and replaced with a brand new leather belt made outside the company.
It is a semi-unique dial (redundant) made in the 1940s.

What is redundancy

It is a Japanese-English word meaning repairing the dial.
It is said to be REFINISHED DIAL in foreign countries.

It is used for products whose authenticity cannot be clearly determined, or products that are extremely close to counterfeit but cannot be confirmed.
This "redundant" dial can be divided into the following two in a broad sense, except for camouflage.

Redan that faithfully reproduces

ROLEX bubble back Ref.3372 antique

It seems that it was redone (restored) to remove corrosion and damage of the dial.

If you look closely with a loupe, you can see that the typeface is different.

Redan for the purpose of faithfully restoring and reproducing the original dial of an old dial with significantly poor visibility.

custom redundancy

ROLEX bubble back Ref.6050 antique
The model with the 3 and 9 indexes facing sideways is not available on the manufacturer's genuine dial.
Commonly known as Auction Dial (3 Baka Dial).

Make a dial that does not exist in the manufacturer's genuine product. Redan creates personal custom-made products, so to speak.

There are many people who pursue the original even if it has burnt, rusted, and faded colors over time, but the beautiful dial reproduced by Redan, and the original dial, which does not exist in the world, are also antique. Isn't it a good option to use your watch for a long time?

I hope you can come across a charming antique clock! !
You can see the inventory list of bubble bags from here.