Please help me identify this vintage Rolex?

[tspero]

I own a vintage Rolex which was inherited from my grandfather, I believe from the 1930s or 1940s. I have looked through a few Rolex books and online auctions, but have been unable to determine what the model is and what it's production date was. Due to it's age I am hesitant to open the case. It still keeps perfect time which is amazing for the age! I believe the gold band is aftermarket since it does not have a Rolex marking. The leather band and case both appear to be original.

Anyone who can help me identify this watch would be greatly appreciated, and before anyone asks, I am not interested in selling it.

Thanks in advance!

[tspero]

No responses... Did I stump everyone? Is it really that rare?

[SLS]

No, but better pics would help. Use the macro (flower button) setting on your camera & turn off the flash, better dial pics will tell us a lot. The numbers between the lugs or inside the caseback would also be helpful.
Scott

[sam.]

Originally Posted by SLS

No, but better pics would help. Use the macro (flower button) setting on your camera & turn off the flash, better dial pics will tell us a lot. The numbers between the lugs or inside the caseback would also be helpful.
Scott

yes can we have some closeups please

[tspero]

Here are some very high resolution close-ups (14 mega-pixel). What do you think for a model or age?

[archaeofreak]

No offense, but these are horrible pics! I think you need a tripod!

[volkersports]

That is a very cool watch. I have not seen that case and dial before in any of the reference books. You may have to let a skilled watchmaker open it and see if there is a case number in back. Probably want to see if there are hallmarks to determine gold content. It may be that this watch case was made by someone other than Rolex. In the 30's and 40's some countries (Great Britain in particular) put high tariffs on gold imports so Rolex shipped the movements only and many cases were made locally with Rolex put on the dial. It would be interesting to see what the movement is. 10.5 Hunter was very common for these watches. Whatever you find, you have a very distinctive piece of Rolex history there.

[tspero]

Originally Posted by volkersports

That is a very cool watch. I have not seen that case and dial before in any of the reference books. You may have to let a skilled watchmaker open it and see if there is a case number in back. Probably want to see if there are hallmarks to determine gold content. It may be that this watch case was made by someone other than Rolex. In the 30's and 40's some countries (Great Britain in particular) put high tariffs on gold imports so Rolex shipped the movements only and many cases were made locally with Rolex put on the dial. It would be interesting to see what the movement is. 10.5 Hunter was very common for these watches. Whatever you find, you have a very distinctive piece of Rolex history there.

Thanks very much for your comment and expert knowledge! I haven't seen this dial in any reference books either. As far as I know, it was originally purchased in Palm Beach, FL by my grandfather in either the 30's or 40's, so that might rule out the Great Britain idea, but still very insightful!