The rare and very cool ladies wristwatch showcased in today's offering is a wonderful example of one of Rolex's interesting special vintage ladies models. Called the "Chameleon", it featured an unusual case with a slot in the back so different color bands could easily be slid on and off and the look changed to match different outfits, moods, or occasions.

Here are a few of the features that make this wristwatch so special:

• "Chameleon" model with case made for easy band interchange ability
• Beautiful honeycomb textured silver dial
• High quality Rolex mechanism capable of precision timekeeping
• Unusual gold case with slot for changing bands
• 18K gold early Swiss version - these watches are most often found in 14K examples made for the U.S. market - this uncommon 18K gold version is a true fully Rolex Swiss creation.
• Very rare original box and three original Rolex bands

We were fortunate to acquire this classic and early Chameleon in pleasing original condition accompanied by its original box which holds the watch and straps. It has fully Rolex parts down to the original hands and winding crown. The three Rolex straps vary in condition.

Also available for purchase for an additional $145 is a set of eight brand new aftermarket straps - please see the photo in the listing.

All of its parts are original, down to the original hands and winding crown.

Its wonderful case is in excellent condition with crisp unpolished fluted facets. Because the fluting has never been polished and has been untouched for decades we left some of the natural patina of the gold. If you would like it wiped off, please let us know. Its silver dial is bright and clean, freshly restored - note that the appearance of distortion of the letters is because of the honeycomb texturing.

One of our watchmakers has disassembled it high grade Rolex movement down to its last screw and cleaned and oiled it making it ready for immediate enjoyment.

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

If you are looking for a treasure for that special someone in your life, this is it. Modern Rolexes don't come close to matching the charm and creativity of this vintage original.

• Manufacturer: Rolex
• Country of origin: Switzerland, made for the U.S. market
• Model: Chameleon, ref. 8788
• Year sold: c. late 1950's
• Functions: Hours, Minutes
• Designed for: Women
• Case material: 18K gold
• Case markings (outside): Remnant of Rolex coronet, remnants of case number
• Case condition: Presents beautifully. Note that our very magnified photo enhance the blemishes. The back has been previously polished. The top and sides have never been polished. Because the fluting has never been polished and has been untouched for decades we left some of the natural patina of the gold. If you would like it wiped off, please let us know. On the wrist it presents as just short of mint.
• Dimensions: 16mm wide (excluding crown)
• Dial: Silver, signed Rolex, gold faceted dart applied indices, bright and clean, nicely restored. Note that the appearance of distortion of the letters is because of the honeycomb texturing.
• Hands: Original, gold "alphas"
• Movement type: High grade, Rolex caliber 1400, manually wound, rhodium plated, Geneva stripes, 17 ruby jewels, dual shock absorbers
• Movement markings: Rolex, Geneve, 17 Rubis, Swiss
• Bands: Set of three Rolex straps in various colors. Also available for purchase for an additional $145 is a set of eight brand new aftermarket straps - please see the photo in the listing.
• Crystal: Acrylic, vintage, excellent condition
• Serviced: One of our watchmakers has disassembled it down to its last screw and cleaned and oiled it making it ready for immediate enjoyment. 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 experienced team of watchmakers both of whom each have over forty years of experience and a large number of parts.
• Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system.
• Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Please email concierge@cotwatches.com for details.
• Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity
• 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