Rolex Oyster Perpetual 5006

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 5006 is a rare and enigmatic reference from the mid-1940s, with conflicting historical records. It has been documented as both a 32mm “Bubbleback” and, more prominently in auction records, as a large 36mm “Ovettone” in pink gold. This makes it a fascinating and potentially transitional model. The “Bubbleback” version would use a 9 3/4”’ caliber, while the “Ovettone” would use a 10 1/2”’ caliber. Case materials include 14k gold and two-tone steel/gold. Its significance lies in this ambiguity and its representation of Rolex’s design evolution.