Today's offering showcases this exceedingly interesting early Rolex housed in a very rare early Borgel waterproof case.

We don't know this watch's history with certainty so must speculate based on a single known example of a Vacheron with the same case, in 18K gold that came up for sale in 1994.

This watch seems to be an exceedingly rare and possibly unique watch - perhaps even a prototype made by Rolex or for Rolex by Borgel / Taubert & Fils as example made to try to secure a contract for this special waterproof case. As far as we know, it is the only known example of a Rolex with this special Borgel / Taubert & Fils case. The matching period of the movement and dial to the c. 1932 case and the fit of the movement in the case all suggest the watch's originality, but there is no way to know with certainty.

The case has a fantastic almost space-age looks case whose appearance was far ahead of its time. Its highly faceted lugs were presumably designed to complement the deca-faceted bezel with early screwed down design to give water-resistance.

Its unusual design with 10-sided bezel was a 1932 patent of Taubert & Fils case manufacturers in Geneva, and was used by Vacheron & Constantin in one known example and by Longines. For all but the most dedicated early waterproof case connoisseurs, Taubert is probably not a familiar name. They took over the famous Borgel waterproof case pioneers in 1924, who made the early Submarine, Hermetic, and Semi-Hermetic cases for Rolex as they were busy developing their Oyster case.

We were fortunate to acquire it in what appears to be all-original condition.

Its exceedingly rare case is in truly exceptional condition with perfectly crisp facets. It shows only very light wear and only the slightest signs of previous polishing.

Its original dial has developed a deep "tropical" patina from its near century of existence and interaction with radium.

One of our Master Watchmakers, who used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealer and was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center to be an authorized Rolex watchmaker, has fully serviced the watch which consists of fully disassembling the movement, carefully inspecting each part, installing a new mainspring, reassembling and lubricating the movement, and extensive timing testing and regulation (a $795 value).

Included in the listing is a period ad for this case, a photo of the patent listing, and a photo of the Vacheron from the company's archive alongside a Longines and the one known V & C example. The Antiquorum auction listing for the one-known Vacheron with this case can be found here.

Accompanying it is a dark brown NATO style strap that was on the watch when we acquired it. Please inquire if you would like a different strap installed.

Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. international warranty on the movement and its function, a full-page custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.

Don't miss the chance to add this unusual watch to your distinguished collection.

Manufacturer: Rolex
Country of origin: Switzerland
Year built: c. 1932
Serial no.: 1430
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Subsidiary Seconds
Designed for: Men
Case material: Stainless steel
Case markings (inside): F.B. (see above for information regarding Francois Borgel), Brevet + (French for "patent"), Staybrite Stainless Steel, 1430
Case condition: Truly exceptional condition with perfectly crisp facets. It shows only very light wear and only the slightest signs of previous polishing.
Dimensions: 29mm wide (excluding crown), 36mm long lug tip-to-tip
Dial: Silver with formerly luminous Arabic numerals, sunken seconds dial, outer railroad minute track, signed Rolex, original and untouched with much patina
Hands: Original, blued steel luminous
Movement type: High grade, Super Balance', signed Rolex and Swiss made, 15 ruby jewels
Movement markings: Rolex, Swiss Made, 15 Rubis
Band: Dark brown NATO strap that was on the watch when we acquired it, like new. We also stock a variety of other straps in various prints, skins, and colors. Please ask us if you're interested.
Band width: 16mm
Crystal: Mineral glass, excellent condition
Servicing: One of our Master Watchmakers, who used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealer and was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center to be an authorized Rolex watchmaker, has fully serviced the watch which consists of fully disassembling the movement, carefully inspecting each part, installing a new mainspring, reassembling and lubricating the movement, and extensive timing testing and regulation (a $795 value).
Warranty: 1-year C.O.T. international warranty. Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an extremely experienced team of four Master Watchmakers all of whom each have over thirty-five years of experience and a large number of parts. As mentioned one used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealership and was given special training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center.
Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our watches. If you are in any way unsatisfied with the watch we will fully refund the purchase price anytime within 7 days after the watch has been received. Our goal is to exceed our client's expectations throughout the buying experience.

All watches are packaged carefully and mailed double boxed in specially constructed, reinforced shipping boxes designed for high value items. All watches are sent fully insured with signature required. Most of our domestic shipping is done through FedEx. At times we will also use USPS Express Mail, and we can accommodate most requests for your preferred carrier. International shipments are sent USPS International Express Mail or FedEx.

The purchase price will be the declared value of the merchandise on any required customs forms. The payment of all customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Also note that water resistance of vintage watches can no longer be guaranteed and is not covered under the watch's warranty. We do not recommend getting a vintage watch wet, even one that was originally designed to be waterproof.

To get an idea of how this watch will look on the wrist, please use the Watch Sizing Guide

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