Layout photo, just for fun. Reference are (T to B, L to R) are: 2764, 3372, 3696, 3133/2764, 3065, 2940, 3725).
Nice collection @adam78 it will be a bakers dozen before long. ( I was expecting a bakers dozen with all you have posted over time )
Actually, not really! Most of the rarest ones are in AZ with Jason Singer, and the rest seem to be in Kong Kong or Japan, judging from Instagram...
I remember back to when the bubbleback "bubble" was happening. Watches in horrible condition were all heading to Asia. Had my eye out for a reasonably priced 2940 at the time, but never pulled the trigger. Seems like they aren't evening getting what the price was 15 years ago! Beautiful collection, btw. That 3065 may have just whetted my appetite for one!
That's an awesome collection. Any idea I can get more information about bubbleback? reference numbers, models? Didn't know too much about it until I saw Jason Singer's interview. Really strikes with the design and old school rolex look
Dowling and Hess's "The Best of Time" has an excellent chapter on bubblebacks and early Oysters, but it's not exhaustive. I don't know of a single online reference that will explain the multiple references and explain the movement variations, esp. as the line progresses into the '50s with the "semi" and "big" bubblebacks, as well as the traditional sized (31-32mm) bbs with updated case references. I've picked up my knowledge in bits and pieces over the last 15 years or so. One basic level of understanding involves which references are 2- or 3-pieces cases (i.e. with integrated or removable bezel). This will influence how the lugs are supposed to be polished (i.e. 45-degree brushing with 2-piece cases, such as 2940 or 2764; or straight brushing with 3-piece cases, such as 3133 or 3065). I didn't get this for many years!
