Rolex. An extremely rare stainless steel automatic wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, bracelet and "Explorer Dial"

Reference 6200 is one of the rarest and most desirable Rolex Submariner models ever made. In fact, it is the first Submariner reference with the larger 8mm "Brevet"-crown, depth rated to 200 meters. Thanks to its case proportions it has a very strong appearance and masculine look, compared to its predecessors fitted with the 6mm winder. Interestingly, reference 6200 was the first Submariner to feature the typical Mercedes-hands. Compared to later Submariner generations, these were however longer and collectors pay a lot of attention to secure an example featuring the original hands, as it is the case with this premium specimen here.

The present example features furthermore its original and unrestored "Explorer-type" dial, defined by its bold 3, 6, 9 numerals. Whereas early examples of reference 6200 did neither feature the Submariner designation nor the depth rating, watches of the second batch could feature the model name printed in white.

A very important feature of the present "sixty-two-hundred" is the fact that its dial is also stating "Officially Certified Chronometer". According to our research, this is the only known example with such a dial designation, further enhancing its rarity and importance to collectors. Esthetically speaking, the consequence of this additional 3 lines (which earlier examples do not have) is a wonderful visual balance between the upper and lower half of the dial.

Few sports watches have such iconic status amongst collectors like a beautifully aged reference 6200. This example is certainly one of the best specimens ever offered at auction.