ROLEX | VERY FINE AND RARE STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELETREF 6536/1 CASE 399342 SUBMARINER 'JAMES BOND SMALL CROWN' CIRCA 1959

Movement: cal. 1030 automatic, 25 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw-down case backBracelet/Clasp/Buckle: stainless steel Rolex bracelet and folding claspSize: 38 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximatively 178 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The gilt dial is in excellent over all condition with very nice minor hairlines throughout the gloss dial; this ageing effect is referred to as a "spider web" type of dial and is visible with the naked eye. All luminous materials has been nicely preserved and has taken a very creamy orange color throughout the years. The hands are oxidised throughout. The case with tiny pinhead dings at places, otherwise it is in very good overall condition with minimal signs of polishing. The case back with minor surface wear and inner case back is stamped "6536/1, 59" otherwise the watch is in very excellent overall condition for it's age. The bracelet is slightly stretched but in good overall condition with end links stamped "58" and folding clasp stamped "4, 65". * The present 6526/1 is a very original example and is considered top quality in vintage watch collecting. Please note that the movement has not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's expense. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The production of the reference 6536 was approximately launched in the year 1955 and said to have stopped production in 1959. Because the reference is fitted with a calibre 1030, the shape of the case back is less rounded in comparison to its predecessor.  The reference 6536 is often seen with a gilt dial and a guaranteed waterproof depth that is up to 100 meters. The present watch has aged beautifully with all its luminous materials present. The lumes have also aged into a very warm pumpkin like colour. The attractive gilt dial has no apparent signs of discolouring with minor hairlines that is only apparent when light is refracted from a specific angle. The hairlines to the dial not only adds character to this specific watch but also adds an ageing effect which is referred to as a "spider web" type of dial that is highly desired by Rolex connoisseurs.

The insert is original and in very good condition with a full red triangle. The case is very crisp and still retains with its bevelled edges. The numbers between the lugs are incredibly easy to read without the aide of a loupe. Inside the case back is stamped i.59 and the outside of the case back with very sharp milled edges. Overall this is a highly charismatic example in top quality condition.

For similar example of the reference 6538, please see lot 2255.