Rolex hooded bubbleback ref 6064

As many collector would know, one of the more unique Rolex watches is the Rolex Bubbleback, whose name comes from its protruding case back, which bulges in order to accommodate the thick movement and rotor that turns on a pivot, powering the winding of the mainspring. The first Bubbleback made its appearance in 1933, and the watches were produced for only about twenty years. The Bubbleback helped establish Rolex as a brand known for its reliability, and these watches certainly are reliable—as evidenced by the relatively high number still functioning today.

Most of the early Bubblebacks displayed time only. The original model featured subsidiary seconds, which later changed to sweeping seconds. Later models also included the date, becoming the first DateJust models produced by Rolex. In 1935, Rolex developed the “Super Balance,” a streamlined balance wheel that improved the functioning of the Auto-Rotor. Rolex then began producing the watch in three different sizes to make it more appealing to individuals of both genders. In 1941, Rolex launched a Bubbleback model intended specifically for ladies.

Most popular versions of the Bubbleback are Steelium (stainless steel), Rolesor (half gold, half steel) and gold (9k, 14k, 18k pink or yellow gold). The terms Steelium and Rolesor are unique creations of Rolex, who patented them in 1931 and 1933 respectively. Case style variations include engine-turned and smooth bezels as well as some with the hooded lugs. I was told that the hooded model was rare and was made for the US market,

More variation can be seen in the dial designs, which differ between black, pink or white dials, two-tone dials, 24-hour military-style dials and an atypical California dial with mixed Roman & Arabic numerals.

Even though the popular watches now is the sports model, The Rolex Bubbleback is a very iconic watch and a coveted collector’s piece and has always been very close to my heart. 

This afternoon, in my effort to streamline and reduce the quantities of my watch collection, I have managed to swap my Herdomas 8 days watch + Rolex 6694 and top up for a Rolex hooded bubbleback ref 6064, with the dial that I don't have.

This new member will join its family soon..

Accessories

Old dial for old watch

Went home and took the dials for the bubbleback...

😁三人行

This dial design is one of my favourite. I have managed to find this dial for Rolex hooded, bubbleback and the Royal. One more Speed King to complete the range..

James Bond Sub

5508 from the 1950s.. Photo together with a vintage special agent badge..

Beijing watch

I have finally found back the NOS 1989 watch made by Beijing watch company in my mom's place. Owing to the overseas posting, I will have to move several time and often my  exceccsss boxes will have to be temporary stored at my mom's place..

Waltham Masonic

鍾錶藝術2002

Times flies

新春快樂2015

Trematic & Fortis Moonphase

Having sold my spare Seiko 6159-7010, I have managed to find a nos Trematic Moonphase from 1965 using Felsa 693 movement Felsa Bidinator (Also used by Breitling). It's a large stainless steel case measuring 37mm excluding crown. The calibre Felsa 692also called Bidynator, is the first self-winding movement with bidirectionally operating rotor. A mechanical switcher on gear basis, introduced in 1942, determines the direction of motion of the weight segment. the Felsa 693, is automatic Moonphase.

I have traded my modern Hamilton for this vintage Fortis Moonphase using Valjoux 90

Vintage watch speculation

I remember at one time some were speculating the Rolex day date with the so called Stella dials. Unfortunately the fever has died and with the many fake dials, the appeal of these have gone down further. The spider dials, overly damaged dials，damaged bezel that came in will soon have the same fate when collector awake one day to realize that in vintagevwatch collecting, quality is key.,,

Reconditioned dials photos from vintage Rolex forum

Photos from Rolex Vintage forum showing very good reconditioned dials, so buyers beware. I read from some forum that there are many nice patina dials coming out from Hong Kong as well where the colours have evolved to a nice orange colours. As I am no expert, for those who is buying from the net, Please double check...