Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 5050 'Bubble Back' Wristwatch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1949
Maker / issuer
RolexThis Rolex Oyster Perpetual wristwatch, identified by reference 5050, dates to 1949. The watch features a 32 mm diameter case crafted from 18ct yellow gold, complemented by a matching yellow gold bracelet.
The watch is distinguished by the 'Bubble back' case construction, a design feature required to accommodate early self-winding mechanisms. and a minute track positioned on the outer edge. The timepiece operates using a self-winding automatic movement, specifically the caliber 630. This model represents an iteration of the Oyster Perpetual series, incorporating historical automatic rotor technology. The construction utilizes the design conventions associated with the Bubble Back series, which were first introduced in 1933.
The source indicates that the watch adheres to the chronometer standards of its time.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Self-winding wristwatch
- Maker
- Rolex
- Caliber
- 630
- Reference
- 5050
- Case Diameter
- 32 mm
- Case Material
- 18ct yellow gold
- Dial features
- Golden dial with baton markers and minute track
- Maker / attribution
- Rolex
Design
- Visible features
- • Minute track visible at the dial perimeter • Watch is equipped with a gold-toned link bracelet • Crown positioned at 3 o'clock
- Case and Dial Design
- The watch is constructed with an 18ct yellow gold case measuring 32 mm in diameter. It follows the design specifications of the 'Bubble back' series, which is characterized by a prominent, domed case back. This specific configuration was developed to provide sufficient depth for the internal rotor components required for early automatic winding systems. The dial is finished in a golden hue and features baton-style hour markers. A minute track is present on the outer circumference of the dial.
- Movement and Mechanism
- The timepiece is powered by the Rolex caliber 630, a self-winding automatic movement. This mechanism is housed within the Oyster Perpetual series, which leverages historical developments in rotor technology that the manufacturer began standardizing in the 1930s. The movement is designed to function automatically, utilizing the rotor system to maintain the mainspring's energy. The caliber 630 forms the functional core of this reference 5050 model, ensuring the operation of the display within the chronometer-certified framework.
- Historical Context and Series Identification
- The reference 5050 belongs to the broader category of Oyster Perpetual watches, which trace their lineage back to the 1926 inception of the Oyster case. The 'Bubble back' descriptor used for this model specifically relates to the structural requirements of the automatic movement used during this period. It is presented on a yellow gold bracelet, adhering to the physical specifications documented in the source catalog.
Identification
- Reference
- 5050
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Source does not specify the origin of the yellow gold bracelet
- Research required: Movement condition and functionality not detailed beyond caliber identification