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Lot Essay
Often referred to by collectors as Submariner 6536⁄8 or 6536⁄6538, the present timepiece pre-dates the formal release of the reference 6536 and is regarded as a highly important transitional model. It is an intriguing cross between the iconic 'Big Crown' Submariner 6538 and the slimmer Submariner 6536⁄1, combining features of both references in a single, uncommon configuration.
The term 'double reference' originates from the unusual case engraving, where both '6536' and '6538' reference numbers are present. Typically, the original '6538' engraving is crossed out and replaced with the correct '6536' designation. The 6536⁄8 is a unique crossover in Rolex's early dive watch production since it uses the larger and thicker case of the 6538 while keeping the smaller 6 mm crown and 100-meter depth rating of the standard 6536.
The present double reference 6536⁄8, part of the collection of an important private collector, is an extraordinary rarity. There are less than a dozen known examples, all of which date to around 1955 and have case numbers starting with 89'XXX. These timepieces can also be identified by their casebacks, which were redesigned by Rolex, possibly as a practical and economical move during this period of transition, and dials with an uncommon red depth rating.
The model's desirability is increased by additional distinguishing characteristics. A useful feature that helped divers find their way in low light underwater is the luminous marker at six o'clock, which is noticeably brighter than the others. Other known instances of the 6536⁄6538 share this trait. An additional level of rarity and historical significance is added by the presence of an early non-hash bezel insert.
The term 'double reference' originates from the unusual case engraving, where both '6536' and '6538' reference numbers are present. Typically, the original '6538' engraving is crossed out and replaced with the correct '6536' designation. The 6536⁄8 is a unique crossover in Rolex's early dive watch production since it uses the larger and thicker case of the 6538 while keeping the smaller 6 mm crown and 100-meter depth rating of the standard 6536.
The present double reference 6536⁄8, part of the collection of an important private collector, is an extraordinary rarity. There are less than a dozen known examples, all of which date to around 1955 and have case numbers starting with 89'XXX. These timepieces can also be identified by their casebacks, which were redesigned by Rolex, possibly as a practical and economical move during this period of transition, and dials with an uncommon red depth rating.
The model's desirability is increased by additional distinguishing characteristics. A useful feature that helped divers find their way in low light underwater is the luminous marker at six o'clock, which is noticeably brighter than the others. Other known instances of the 6536⁄6538 share this trait. An additional level of rarity and historical significance is added by the presence of an early non-hash bezel insert.