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Read more about this watch...
During its production between 1958 and 1962, the reference 5580 only featured dials with hour markers (without numerals). It also added for the first time the 15-minute marker on the bezel, a change that is still present on modern Submariner models. Another key adjustment that came with the 5508 was the switch in Submariner reference numbers to the 55(XX) reference, which lasted all the way into the 90's.
The 5508 measures just 37mm in diameter while the modern ones measure 41mm. Powering the Ref. 5508 is the calibre 1530 with nickel-finished lever movement, featuring 25 jewels and a monometallic compensation balance. Both this movement and the one that came before it (calibre 1030) are known as "butterfly movements" due to the shape of their rotors, however, the calibre 1530 is more modern and reliable than its predecessor.
The Ref. 5508 was one of the last references to feature characteristics that were emblematic of the very first Submariner models. Chiefly among these features is the lack of crown guards. Nicknamed by watch collectors as "Small Crown" is easily distinguishable from other “no-crown-guard” references due to the 6mm screw-down crown which is much smaller than those outfitted to following models.
An additional classic feature of the 5508 was its depth rating. The very first Submariner (Ref. 6204) had a water resistance of 100 meters, and the majority of Submariners that followed also featured 100-meter depth ratings. The Ref. 5508 was the last Submariner to have this water resistance, with subsequent references featuring depth ratings of 200 meters or more.