Here we have an ultra rare early Rolex "trench" style wristwatch in a full hunter sterling silver case with spring loaded outer cover to protect the dial, crystal and hands. This incredible all original example has that tangible military service feel with its tarnished, old looking case and worn crown; yet the dial, crystal and hands inside remain in remarkably good condition considering what this watch almost certainly has saw almost 100 years ago. The unique flip-up style, spring loaded lid is working perfectly, released by depressing the button located at the 6:00 position and the superbly crafted 0.935 silver case, manufactured by W&D is fully signed both inside the lid and the screw down back cover with all the proper hallmark's and Brevet 71363 stamp. The movement, while certainly showing signs of its age, is in excellent working condition and running strong after a full service by our watchmaker. A truly remarkable and important early Rolex wristwatch with wonderful military feel and horological importance.
Style: Military, Early Wristwatch
Circa: 1910's
Case: All original 0.935 Sterling silver 4-piece case with spring loaded lid, inner bezel with glass crystal, heavy wire lug body and screw down back. Measures 35mm in diameter excluding the original crown. The lid works perfectly with strong spring action and the back screws on nicely. Overall it shows light scratches throughout and a couple of small dings as the case has not been polished or tampered with to maintain its full military character. Signed inside the upper lid and again inside the back: Rolex, W&D, 0.935, Swiss, Brevet 71363 with lion hallmark.
Dial: Original factory made white enamel dial with most of its original radium luminous paint still in place. This dial looks superb as you can see in these photos with just a couple of near invisible hairline cracks and 2 tiny chips around the outer edge at 6 and 3 o'clock to note. The original black steel skeleton hands have been perfectly re-filled to match the colour on the dial.
Movement: Excellent quality Rolex manual wind movement with bi-metallic cut balance, blue steel hairspring and 15 jewelled train, signed Rolex, Swiss Made. Please see pictures for the cosmetic condition as it does show its age with some plate patina and teeth missing from the ratchet wheel. Recently serviced by our watchmaker and in excellent working condition, winding/setting perfectly and keeping great time.
Strap: Beautiful high quality vintage trench watch style genuine leather strap with 12mm central band and wide fancy shape backing provided by David Boettcher at www.vintagewatchstraps.com. These are the best you can buy for this style of wire lug wristwatch and a joy to wear.