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Lot 330
Rolex. A highly charismatic and rare stainless steel automatic wristwatch with sweep centre seconds, tropical dial, bracelet, guarantee and box
SIGNED ROLEX, OYSTER PERPETUAL, 200M=660FT, SUBMARINER, REF. 6538, CASE NO. 449'303, CIRCA 1959
Closed12 May 2014
Price Realised
CHF 62,500
More Information
Specialist note
With Rolex undated guarantee and presentation box.
The present reference 6538 is a compelling example of the model, featuring a dial that has aged to a warm caramel shade, blending into a darker shade around the right edge. It is further enhanced by "spidering" cracks, which give the dial a textured feel. The gilt printing, while "interrupted" by the cracking, is still visible, and it is interesting to note that the "200m=660ft", printed in silver-white on the surface, has no such interruption.
The present watch is a fascinating study in tropical Rolex dials and how each example presents an opportunity to learn about how the different types of printing and materials can age in a variety of ways.
The present reference 6538 is a compelling example of the model, featuring a dial that has aged to a warm caramel shade, blending into a darker shade around the right edge. It is further enhanced by "spidering" cracks, which give the dial a textured feel. The gilt printing, while "interrupted" by the cracking, is still visible, and it is interesting to note that the "200m=660ft", printed in silver-white on the surface, has no such interruption.
The present watch is a fascinating study in tropical Rolex dials and how each example presents an opportunity to learn about how the different types of printing and materials can age in a variety of ways.