Rolex Oyster Perpetual „Bubble Back“
Historical foundation of the automatic system
The Reference 2940 is one of the Geneva-based manufacturer's most historically significant model series. In the early 1940s, this timepiece - known to collectors worldwide as the „Bubble Back“ or „Ovetto“ (little egg) in Italian - marked the breakthrough of automatic winding in a waterproof case. The eponymous, strongly cambered case back was structurally necessary to accommodate the then new Perpetual rotor of the Caliber 9 ¾“‘ NA without increasing the housing flanks disproportionately.
With a diameter of 32 mm this model represents the classic men's size of the 1940s. The three-part Oyster case made of stainless steel has the characteristic screw-down crown and screw-down back, which made the watch extremely robust for its time. The dial has an authentic, age-appropriate patina that underlines the character of this contemporary witness.
The state of preservation is remarkable for a watch that is around 80 years old: the case shows hardly any visible signs of wear and the substance of the horns is well preserved. Technically, this piece represents the genesis of the modern Rolex Oyster Perpetual. A certificate from a watchmaker confirms its authenticity and replaces the original papers, which are no longer available.
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This item is taxed in accordance with § 25 A UStG - VAT cannot be shown.
For more information, see Technical Details.


















