harb
04-20-2009, 09:09 AM
Photo and text: Chris Perez
In the late 1950s, Rolex released these models with an Explorer Dial. Apparently, they were marketed in the far east, sold to British Military officers (J.Dowling and J. Hess, 1996; The Best of Time-Rolex Wristwatches; an Unauthorized History. pg 242-243). Mine bears the serial number 4193xx and is stamped IV-58 on the inside caseback. This watch contains the 18,000bph, 17j, Calibre 1530 which is adjusted to two (2) positions thereby I assume this qualifies it as "precision." Although not pictured here, I did get the original 19-mm oyster riveted bracelet which is stamped "7205" with "57" stamped end pieces.
http://newturfers.com/mwf/attach/42/399442/Ex5500.jpg
In the late 1950s, Rolex released these models with an Explorer Dial. Apparently, they were marketed in the far east, sold to British Military officers (J.Dowling and J. Hess, 1996; The Best of Time-Rolex Wristwatches; an Unauthorized History. pg 242-243). Mine bears the serial number 4193xx and is stamped IV-58 on the inside caseback. This watch contains the 18,000bph, 17j, Calibre 1530 which is adjusted to two (2) positions thereby I assume this qualifies it as "precision." Although not pictured here, I did get the original 19-mm oyster riveted bracelet which is stamped "7205" with "57" stamped end pieces.
http://newturfers.com/mwf/attach/42/399442/Ex5500.jpg