Bubbleback 5015

[Rosie B]

I recently was given a Rolex Bubbleback by a relative. I was wondering if anyone could advise me if it’s genuine before I send it for repair/restoration. I’m concerned that the word superlative is on the dial as I’ve read somewhere that genuine Bubbleback don’t have this wording.

[Will866]

Add a photo

[Rosie B]

Originally Posted by Will866

Add a photo

Thank you, photos added

[Rosie B]

Photos attached

[Rosie B]

I also haven’t been able to open it myself. Any advice on what the inside of the caseback and movement might look like would be greatly appreciated. I’ve been advised the movement may look different due to the age of the watch. Many thanks

[Mark020]

I'm afraid this is a redial

[Dan S]

As noted, the dial appears to have been repainted at some point in the past. This was a common occurrence when dials became damaged. To be fair, while it's not a totally accurate repaint, it was carefully done and still attractive, and something you should treasure as a gift and heirloom. Obviously it's impossible to say that the watch is fully authentic from a few photos, but I would be surprised if it weren't legit. It even appears to have the correct original crown. I don't know what you had in mind, but in your place, I would just have the movement serviced; I don't see the need for a more elaborate restoration.

[TimeToGo]

.
A lot of dials similar (w/variations) to this one found on this reference - 5015.
That must have been a busy Picasso..
.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by TimeToGo

.
A lot of dials similar (w/variations) to this one found on this reference - 5015.
That must have been a busy Picasso..
.

It's certainly possible that a later "superlative" dial was placed into the earlier case. The OP watch appears to have a super oyster crown, so is presumably from the early 50s.

[TimeToGo]

Originally Posted by Dan S

It's certainly possible that a later "superlative" dial was placed into the earlier case. The OP watch appears to have a super oyster crown, so is presumably from the early 50s.

Hard to figure. The model was produced through around 1959.
Or maybe a service style dial of another model ?!

Ground Control to Major TOM !

[Rosie B]

Thanks everyone for all of your answers, very much appreciated. Hoping to get it opened at the weekend to have a look at the movement and get it fixed as it’s stopped working. The hand had a nice sweeping movement so hoping it has the correct movement inside. It also had another number on the opposite lug starting 545