Vintage Reference Books

[summerpurchase]

Hey there,

Which of the books out there is geared more towards being a reference guide for vintage models. I'm talking 1940's-1960's and such. I'm not necessarily interested in the sport models like the sub and gmt - more so the earlier bubblebacks and various "RWC" oyster models.

I've seen some of the books listed in previous threads here - the Schiffer book, the "Sport Models" book and such - but which do you think does the best with what I listed above?

Thanks!
(this is my first post here - maybe I should have put this in the vintage section?)

[capote]

I will recommend John Goldberger's 100 Superlative Rolex watches. There are many great photo's of vintage watches in there.

[Old Expat Beast]

The Dowling & Hess book is probably your best choice.

[summerpurchase]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

The Dowling & Hess book is probably your best choice.

I have the Schiffer book on Breitling and I really liked how they had charts in the back of the book listing reference numbers and some basic facts about each... like " Ref: 767, chronograph, two register, tear-drop lugs" etc. Then they also had a list of the calibers used in each reference as well as tables listing serials.

Does the Dowling & Hess book have that?

I guess I'm sort of looking for that except for Rolex

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by summerpurchase

I have the Schiffer book on Breitling and I really liked how they had charts in the back of the book listing reference numbers and some basic facts about each... like " Ref: 767, chronograph, two register, tear-drop lugs" etc. Then they also had a list of the calibers used in each reference as well as tables listing serials.

Does the Dowling & Hess book have that?

I guess I'm sort of looking for that except for Rolex

No, it's more if a descriptive history than listings of various models with details for each. One of the Mondani books might suit you better in that case.

[summerpurchase]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

No, it's more if a descriptive history than listings of various models with details for each. One of the Mondani books might suit you better in that case.

Checking out the Mondani books here none of them seem to focus on vintage non-sport models. They have an "encyclopedia" coming out in October, of which Vol. 1 looks good...but Id rather not wait till October.

I realize there may not be one single perfect book - but does it seem like one jumps out more?