ROLEX SUBMARINER REF 6536-1 RARE ORIGINAL GILT DIAL from 1956
Brand: ROLEX
Model: SUBMARINER SMALL CROWN
Reference: 6536-1
Year: 1956
Serial : 155XXX
Diameter : 37mm
Movement : AUTO CAL 1030 ROTOR BUTTERFLY
Case: Unpolished case retains its original shape, with corners still very present and a thick, unpolished case. The watch must have been worn very little. Very visible chamfers and very well preserved case.
Dial: Rare original railroad dial marked swiss and in perfect condition considering the level of radium at the time, gilt lacquer and railroad, original dial from the 50's, the first version with its two gilt lines and very rare luminescent green index also at 6 o'clock which reacts to UV and hands which match well. Rolex changed them often because of the highly concentrated radiation of radium swiss-only dials. The dial is beautifully unlacquered, with lots of character and well-patinated indexes that are still luminescent, as are the original gilt hands with their large Lollipop seconds hand.
Bracelet:: Vintage leather bracelet
Accessories: None
Guarantee : All watches are guaranteed for 6 months for normal use. For vintage watches that are not waterproof, there is no guarantee of water resistance. In the caseof a water resistance problem linked to the non-screwing of the crown, the warranty is also void. In the case of shocks to the watch, the warranty is void. Normal use only qualifies for the 6-month warranty.
Description
Our opinion: The submariner called "James Bond" or small crown is the first submariner version from the 50s, a real tool watch used by divers and in the first James Bond films. The case without crown guard gives it a vintage yet modern look for the 50s, proving once again that Rolex has always been ahead of its time in terms of tool watches. Magnificent example of the little James Bond reference 6536-1. The particularity of these models is that they are mounted on lacquered dials, which are very rare and often in poor condition. This one is perfect, original and very rare first version with its large Lollipop seconds hand. A beautiful vintage collector's watch from the 50's, the famous James Bond with its small winder without crown protection! A must-have in any serious collection. For this price, you're buying a piece of Rolex Submariner history.
Brand
Rolex
Rolex is one of the world's most renowned watch brands, famous for its prestige, quality and innovation.
The beginnings (1905-1920)
Rolex was founded in 1905 in London by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis. The company was initially called Wilsdorf & Davis, and it imported Swiss watch movements which it then had assembled and sold in London. In 1908, Hans Wilsdorf registered the trademark "Rolex", a name he found easy to pronounce and remember in different languages.
Innovation and success (1920-1940)
Rolex quickly established its reputation through its innovations, including the development of the first waterproof wristwatch, the "Oyster", in 1926. This watch was touted as a revolutionary product and received significant media attention, notably when the Swimmer Mercedes Gleitze wore an Oyster during her English Channel crossing.
In the 1930s, Rolex continued to innovate with iconic models, such as the Rolex Prince, which introduced rectangular dials, and the Datejust in 1945, which is considered the first automatic watch to display the date.
The era of divers and explorers (1950-1980)
In the 1950s, Rolex benefited from its association with exploration and adventure. Models like the Submariner, launched in 1953, and the GMT-Master, created in collaboration with Pan Am for pilots, became symbols of this era. These watches were not only stylish, but also designed to withstand extreme environments, cementing Rolex's reputation as a manufacturer of rugged and precise watches.
The rise to luxury (1980–present)
Over the decades, Rolex has become synonymous with luxury and social status. Rolex watches are often worn by famous people and are considered one of the best investments in watches. The brand has focused on artisanal quality, with rigorous control of each piece produced.
Rolex has also been at the forefront of the watch industry by introducing high-precision automatic movements and developing innovative materials such as Everose gold and cerachrom for bezels.
Philanthropic commitment
In addition to its watchmaking heritage, Rolex is engaged in various philanthropic initiatives, notably through the Rolex Awards for Enterprise, which supports innovative projects in different fields, such as science, environment and culture.
Conclusion
Today, Rolex is more than just a watch brand; it embodies a symbol of success and accomplishment. With over a century of innovation and a commitment to excellence, Rolex continues to fascinate watch enthusiasts around the world.