Is there anything you can tell me about this vintage Oyster?

[HDrury42]

I recently inherited this Rolex Oyster from my great grandfather.

I was told he wore it during 2 imprisonments in PoW camps in WW2, and the technician at Goldsmith's tells me the bracelet is definitely pre 1950's.

Other than that, I know nothing else about the watch.
I intend to restore it, though it will of course be horrendously expensive!
Thanks

[alwayshere]

no pics....???

how do you expect us to help here?

[HDrury42]

Sorry!

Here are the pictures.

Also, the number engraved between the lugs is: 813959

[Gecko10]

That serial number indicates it was manufactured in 1952.

http://sweepinghand.co.uk/useful-inf...erial-numbers/

https://beckertime.com/lookup-rolex-serial-by-year/

[Gecko10]

Great looking watch!!!!!

[tamiya]

Semi-bubblebacks are postwar by quite a fair few years... unless he was a Japanese soldier who remained hiding in the jungle?

[HDrury42]

Originally Posted by tamiya

Semi-bubblebacks are postwar by quite a fair few years... unless he was a Japanese soldier who remained hiding in the jungle?

I didn’t think it was bubblebacked, it seems almost flat.
And having met him once, I’m fairly sure he’s british!

[offrdmania]

Bracelet is a much later add on if actual Rolex. From the style of end links, im siding with the bracelet being aftermarket and not Rolex. Rolex folded links came around in the late 60s and on into the 70s. Watch head itself is early to mid 1950s based on its dial design and hand design. Serial number is from the early 1950s, it couldnt possibly be worn during WW2.