Rolex

The Rolex Submariner made its debut as a professional dive watch, quickly establishing itself not only in the world of sports watches but also as a design icon that would resonate through decades of cultural evolution. Since its introduction in 1953, it has become a benchmark in both form and function.

One of the most iconic models that would go on to define the Submariner family is the legendary Reference 6538, known for its glossy black gilt dial, distinctive lollipop seconds hand, impressive 8 mm Brevet ‘big crown’, and the notable absence of crown guards, a feature that would be introduced later in the decade to enhance protection. Its legacy was further immortalized on screen by Sean Connery, who wore the Two-Line version of this reference in classic James Bond films such as Dr. No, From Russia with Love, Goldfinger, and Thunderball. It’s no surprise that collectors affectionately refer to this model as the "James Bond" Submariner.

The 6538 was in production circa 1955 to 1959 across four series, with the present example being the fourth and final series, which were made between late 1958 to 1959 with case numbers in approximately the 426’000 to 449’300 range. The fourth series 6538 is distinguished by the painted red triangle marker at 12 o'clock on the aluminum bezel insert with hash marks, a smaller white 'lollipop' seconds hand, and most notably the silver-colored print above the gilt 'SUBMARINER'.

The present fourth series 6538 from 1959 is in astonishingly well preserved condition, its unpolished case retaining thick lugs with sharp, beveled edges. The red inverted triangle on the original aluminum bezel insert retains its original bead, and the red color is beautifully preserved, an exceedingly rare trait due to the red color being painted, and thus more prone to fading overtime. Furthermore, the inside case back is free from watchmakers' marks. The dial is in fantastic condition with no visible spidering and the glossy surface intact, a strong Geiger reading, original hands, and full luminous plots aging to a warmer mocha hue.

We are pleased to offer one of the best examples of the 6538 to come to market, an iconic timepiece that not only embodies vintage excellence but is surely one Mr. Connery and Ian Fleming himself would have admired, directly from the grandson of the original owner.