Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Geneva, May 09, 2026
LOT 650
ROLEX, SWITZERLAND, REF. 5510, SUBMARINER "BIG CROWN", STAINLESS STEEL
CHF 50,000 - 80,000
HKD 496,000 - 800,000 / USD 64,000 - 102,000 / EUR 55,000 - 87,000 / JPY 10,080,000 - 16,130,000
A fine, iconic, stainless steel, self winding diver's wristwatch
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AAA |
Excellent |
Case: 3-8 |
Good Slightly scratched |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 3-7-01 |
Good Oxidized HANDS Original |
Brand Rolex, switzerland
Model Submariner "Big Crown"
Reference 5510
Year 1958
Case No. 361946
Bracelet stainless steel Rolex riveted bracelet dated 59, approx. overall length 160 mm.
Caliber 1530, 25 jewels
Diameter 38
Signature dial, case and movement
Accessories fitted box
Notes
The “Submariner” model appeared in 1953. At that time, the watch was water-resistant to 100 metres. The first models, without crown protection (or crown-guard), are today nicknamed “James Bond” after the watch. Reference 6538 worn by “Agent 007”, played on the screen by Sean Connery (1930-2020), in the films “Dr. No” (1962), “From Russia with Love” (1963) and “Goldfinger” (1964). There are two types of “James Bond” Rolex, which can be distinguished according to the size of the crown: small or large.
Immediately recognizable by its lacquered dial, marked “Swiss Only”, the absence of a crown-guard and the large crown (Ø 8 mm.), the Reference 5510 was only produced for one year, from the end of 1958 to 1959, hence its extreme rarity. Moreover, it is the last of the “James Bond” “Big Crown” watches to have been produced.
Provenance
Property of a Swiss gentleman