The reference 5508, produced between 1957 and 1962, marks the final evolution of the early “Small Crown” Submariners before the introduction of crown guards. With its refined 36.5 mm case, 100-meter depth rating, and gilt dial, it embodies the golden age of early Rolex diving watches.

The present example is an especially attractive piece due to its highly glossy lacquer dial, which has developed a delicate “spider” crack pattern and an appealing tropical brown tone over time. The dial proudly bears the “Serpico y Laino” retailer signature, attesting to its sale through the prestigious Venezuelan jeweler, Rolex’s historic agent in Caracas, a hallmark of rarity and desirability among collectors.

The luminous hour markers and hands have been professionally relumed with tritium, offering both visual balance.
The external caseback engraving “S&L ACERO” remains perfectly preserved, confirming its Serpico y Laino provenance, while the inner caseback is stamped “III.1958”, indicating production during the third quarter of 1958 entirely consistent with this configuration.
Powering this watch is the celebrated Rolex automatic calibre 1530, equipped with the distinctive “double butterfly” rotor, representing one of the brand’s earliest chronometer-grade in-house movements and a milestone in the evolution of the Perpetual mechanism.

The case retains sharp bevels and excellent proportions, with a beautiful harmony between the dial, insert, and riveted Oyster bracelet, completing this historically coherent presentation.

A magnificent and historically significant Rolex Submariner reference 5508 “Serpico y Laino”, featuring a glossy tropical “spider” dial, full retailer engravings, the desirable calibre 1530 with double butterfly rotor, and period-correct 1958 caseback, a superb and collectible example combining rarity, provenance, and mechanical heritage.