ID requested - 1920's/1930's Rolex

[A520665]

Hello everyone,

I have come in possession of a rather old, special Rolex, but am finding it impossible to ID it. Maybe you could help?

I cannot find a serial number anywhere.

Thanks in advance,

Kjeld


Large format image

[andromeda160]

This is a vintage Rolex precision probably from the 40's in a 9,14,18kt gold case. If you open the caseback there should be a model number and I believe the serial numbers are stamped on the caseback as well

[A520665]

Thanks for your swift response!

I'm afraid I'm not quite sure how to go about opening it up...

I've added some extra pictures. Do you also have an indication of what such a watch might be worth?

[andromeda160]

Does it run? It depends on how many kt gold and if it works. I've seen ones with good dials sell for $1000 with recent service and better dials. Sometimes a bit more sometimes a bit less. To pop open the caseback there should be a little groove, I pop them off with a thin knife edge you just have to be careful not to scratch anything. If you don't feel confident enough, than take it to a local pawnshop/watchmaker and ask if the could open your caseback up for you. I know my local pawnshop has all the tools.


Someone has the same one on eBay in pristine shape for $2800 obo but I doubt he's gonna get half that

[adam78]

This one is rather unusual in that it is a Perpetual in a non-Oyster case (i.e. not a typical bubbleback) with fixed wire lugs. It is not a Precision, but a Certified Chronometer (dial looks original). It might be worth a bit more than $1000, depends on movement condition and gold content, but probably not too much more. The ones with contract cases (as this appears to be, I would bet it's 9K) tend not to be worth as much as the Geneva cases.