Rolex “Tropical 6538 4-Line Big Crown” Submariner

Description

Up for grabs is a very rare and stunning early Rolex Submariner, the Reference 6538 “Big Crown”. This model is nicknamed the “James Bond” Submariner, due to the fact that James Bond famously wore the same reference watch in several Bond films, including Dr. No, From Russia with Love, Goldfinger and Thunderball. The “Big Crown” Submariners were produced by Rolex between 1954 and 1959, and are highly regarded as the “holy grail” in Rolex Submariner collecting.  The present example dates to 1958-59, fit with a rare “4-line” dial, and is fresh to the market.

This Rolex Submariner, is in good vintage condition.  The case has been polished in the past, retaining thick and even lugs, and some of the original bevels visible.  The dial remains very glossy, with some spidering to the lacquer surface, and has aged to a striking caramel brown color.  The original radium lume is still present on both dial and hands, aged to a golden yellow color.  Further, the original “Red Triangle” bezel insert remains on the watch, with normal wear from use; this version of the Red Triangle insert was only produced for 1959 watches, and is a massive rarity in its own right!