Geneva, May 15, 2023

LOT 428

ROLEX, REF. 6538, SUBMARINER, BIG CROWN, 4-LINES, STEEL

CHF 30,000 - 50,000

EUR 30,600 - 51,000 / USD 33,800 - 57,000 / HKD 266,000 - 442,000

A fine, very rare, early, self-winding, stainless steel diver's wristwatch


Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3-8

Good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 3 *
Dial: 3-7-55-01-05

Good

Oxidized

Luminous material reapplied

HANDS Original

HANDS Luminous material reapplied

Brand Rolex, Switzerland

Model Submariner

Reference 6538

Year 1956

Case No. 158312

Bracelet Stainless steel Rolex expandable riveted bracelet with later deployant clasp, approx. overall length 167 mm.

Diameter 38 mm.

Caliber 1030, 25 jewels

Signature Dial, case and movement signed

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. The Reference 6538 worn by 007 is a “Big Crown”; this model is the most popular among collectors today. This example made in 1956 features the four lines where the "officially certified chronometer" wording was added to the usual 200m=660ft and Submariner.

Provenance

Property of the original Dutch family