ROLEX | SUBMARINER, REF 6536/1STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELETCIRCA 1957

Dial: blackCalibre: cal. 1030 automatic, 25 jewelsMovement number: D'681'042Case: stainless steel, screw-down backCase number: 229'640Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding claspDimensions: 37mm, bracelet circumference approx. 175mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: none

MVT: is running at the time of cataloguing. CASE: retaining bevels and sharp edges with light signs of use. The lugs retain their full proportions to the best extent. The numbers between the lugs are very crisp and very visible. There is some very minor pitting between the lugs at 12 o clock. The case back is very crisp with a crisp milled edge. Bezel with light scratches and discolouration which is especially visible between 1 and 2 o'clock. Luminous dot at 12 missing. Inside case back stamped I-57. Bracelet with light stretching and stamped 7-70, made in USA. DIAL: with signs of aging and light patina. Areas of discolouration and minor losses to some of the lumes. The lumes react under UV and the 6 o clock baton is shining much brighter. Some minor losses to the hands. Overall, a very charismatic example in honest and original condition. The watch has not been tested to determine the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion.
"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."

Like the Reference 6538 the Submariner Reference 6536 takes its place among some of the most important and desirable Rolex models ever produced. So similar are the 6536 and 6538 that it has retained the ‘James Bond’ nickname although it never strictly appeared in a film. Pre-dating the introduction of crown guards, the 6536 is characterised by its thinner profile and small crown, and is recognised as a transitional reference between the earliest examples and the ‘Big Crown’ references. From the construction of the watches in this period it is clear to see that the design was evolving reference by reference, and as such the aesthetic is particularly Bauhaus. It is this perhaps that makes these modes so highly sought after by collectors.

Consigned by an astute private collector, the present example is lovely and original. The insert is correct for the period, the dial is original and the 6 o’clock numeral glows greater than the other lumes, which is also correct as this allows one to quickly get perspective when looking at the time at night. The lumes themselves have aged consistently throughout and now have a nice warm orange tone. The case is also very crisp with nice beveled edges.