Rolex Big Crown Submariner Reference 6538

The Rolex Submariner reference 6538 with the oversized 8mm “Big Crown” is among the most iconic and highly-coveted sports watches. Produced only in the latter part of the 1950s, the reference 6538 became famous on the late Sean Connery’s wrist while portraying James Bond in the 1962 film Dr. No. That moment and affiliation cemented the Rolex Submariner as the grail watch millions around the world.

Collectors have long held Submariners in high regard and the 1950s Big Crown models are the most prestigious examples. When you look at the 1950s, it is clear that Rolex was heavily invested in the development and marketing of the Submariner family with eight different references introduced (6204, 6205, 6200, 6536, 6538, 5510, 5508, and the 5512) from 1953-1959 - more models than years! To learn more about the Submariner you can watch my ‘Reference Points: Understanding The Rolex Submariner’ video and corresponding article on HODINKEE.

The watch features its original and extremely rare aluminum bezel insert with red triangle that is preserved in outstanding condition. The has been lightly polished in the past, but is extremely attractive. It measures approximately 38mm in diameter. The dial is extremely well preserved and attractive. The original crystal features some crazing, but it comes with a spare period correct replacement crystal we can have our watchmaker swap for the next owner.

The most important element of this watch is the dial, which is preserved in essentially perfect glossy condition. In my opinion, it has to be among the five nicest Submariner dials from the 1950s on the planet and you just cannot find them like this. The vast majority of the Big Crown and Small Crown Submariner models from the 1950s have dials that exhibit matted-out dials and dial damage, which is in stark contract to the beautiful gloss and condition of this dial. Certain watches just knock your socks off when you hold them and this is one of them because of the beautiful and cohesive look behind the mint bezel insert and spectacular dial.

The watch is fresh to market and dates to circa 1959 with a 448,XXX serial. The watch came from the family of the original owner in Texas to an important private collector several years ago and has never been offered publicly for sale. As such, it is fresh to market. It is paired on a Rolex Swiss-made stretch Rivet bracelet from 1957 with the correct and extremely rare 65 end links to complete the watch. We do not know the service history, but it is running well. It recently passed a water resistance test of 1 bar. The watch does not come with box and papers.

Collectors wanting the best possible example of a “James Bond” or “Big Crown” Rolex Submariner need look no further than this example.

PRICE: $550,000 (Item SBUXYT2993)