Revolution: The Evolution of the Role...

New York, Apr 17, 2008

LOT 167

Ref. 5512 ?Submariner? Custom-Engraved by Robert D. Swartley Rolex, ?Oyster Perpetual, Submariner, Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified,? Ref. 5512/5513. Made in 1966. Fine, center seconds, self-winding, water resistant stainless steel diver?s wristwatch. Accompanied by a fitted box, an Oyster booklet and a collection of photos of engravings by Robert D. Swartley.

USD 8,000 - 12,000

EUR 5,400 - 8,000

Sold: USD 18,000

C. Three-body, polished and brushed, screwed down case back and crown, case sides hand-engraved in a floral and leaf pattern, graduated bi-directional revolving black bezel for the decompression times, Twinlock winding-crown protected by the crown guard. D. Black with luminous round, triangular and baton indexes. Luminous skeleton hands. M. Cal. 1570, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to five positions and temperatures, shock absorber, self-compensating free-sprung Breguet balance spring, Microstella regulating screws. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 40 mm. Thickness 14 mm


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

Robert Swartley is recognized by gun collectors around the world as the leading master engraver and is known for his intricate work on antique gun barrels, work so fine that he has to use a binocular microscope. A soft-spoken fellow, Robert is like a surgeon, his hands are so steady, his cuts so precise. Mr. Swartley was commissioned to hand engrave the image on the Jordan wine label, his rendition is so accurate that a chateau clock shows the time of day. Top gun collectors prize the magnificently detailed work of Mr. Swartley - and commission him on an ongoing basis, creating new shotguns that become treasures the moment they are delivered to the owner