5011 Bubbleback- Information Needed

[prbadger]

Hello,

I have an opportunity to buy a bubble back 5011 circa 1946. The asking price is about 1600, but may be able to get that down just a little. My main concern is the dial has been redone at some point on this watch. Any information or guidance on value and if this is a good buy is appreciated. Thanks!

[watch-guy.com]

Dial way too clean for 1946 - most likely redone although pics are not good enough to tell exactly

Redial = reduced value but $1600 appears fair value

Check the case and the movement

Julian

[prbadger]

Thanks for the response! The dealer told me it was a redial, appreciate the thoughts on how that would effect the value.

[offrdmania]

Looks like the hands are new too

[prbadger]

Thanks, I was thinking they were as well. Anyone have a thought on how that would impact the value? Beyond value, I still think it’s a really nice watch, but do want to make sure it’s fairly correct, even with modifications, for a “starter” Rolex.

[prbadger]

Thanks, I was thinking that on the hands as well- any idea if that takes the value down any further? I still like the watch, but this is really helpful to know if too much has been done to it. Thank you!

[motoikkyu]

It does look polished, possibly heavily. A lot depends on how much you like this particular watch and whether you plan to wear it. I'm comfortable wearing the 31mm, some folks are not. In fact, I wore a bubbleback all weekend, one with a re-painted dial that I like. This watch will likely never have a huge value BUT you could probably re-sell it at any time for $1K, especially if the movement is complete and working and in decent condition. That means I would consider the retail value anywhere in the $1000-$1800 range, depending on how much I liked the watch. I can't tell you how much it's worth, I have no idea, but I know how much I'd be likely to pay. I do buy bubblebacks, so this is not a theoretical reply to your sincere question.

[prbadger]

That’s great information and helps me put it in context. I appreciate the help!

[prbadger]

If anyone else sees any red flags, on the dial, hands, polish, ect I welcome any insight. Thank you.

[R.W.T.]

Well that and the fact that it's not a 5011

Is the watch all stainless? The photo is not very revealing.

It's a 2940 best as I can tell.

5011 is generally a steel and gold or all gold model with an engine turned bezel.

Also I don't think 5011 was even available that early.

On the steel and gold 5011 the bezel actually is a separate piece that is press fit. Unlike earlier steel and gold models where the bezel is all gold and screws semi permanently to the steel case middle with a gasket, the 5011 utilizes a solid steel case middle and bezel...and a decorative bezel appliqué is press fit on over it. This is evidenced by the inner rehaute being steel and the outer bezel being gold.

My gut says the back is changed.

Bottom line... you can buy a better watch for that money and for a little more...a LOT better watch.

[R.O.L.E.X]

Redial = Regret

[Toronto Soup King]

If I was looking for a starter Rolex I'd look no further than the 6694. I'm 6'2" and the 6694 looks fine on my 7.5" wrists. Obviously the bubblebacks are special watches and important parts of Rolex history but in terms of wearability, serviceability, and durability, my preference would be a slightly more modern reference. If you ask around on this forum you may find that someone has a 6694 or similar they'd be willing to part with for your budget. Best of luck

[prbadger]

Thanks for the great information. I’ll be passing on this watch. Thanks again.

[adam78]

Yeah, best to wait and seek one which is in better condition and with original dial.

[R.W.T.]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Rol...p2056016.l4276

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Rolex-oyste...75.c100623.m-1