Movement No: N809127
Case No: 383'746
Model Name: Submariner
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather strap
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex buckle
Provenance: Formerly in the collection of Alan Peter Olson (1926-1978)
Literature: For another example of a reference 6538, please see 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, page 206 and 207.
Formerly in the collection of Alan Peter Olson (1926-1978)
Reference 6538 was released in 1955 and ceased production circa 1959. The value and desirability of this reference has increased immensely over the years. The present example is highly charismatic and has so much character. The rarity of the present watch is highlighted by its original insert, big crown and '4 line' black lacquer dial with gilt graphics, 200m=660ft depth rating and 'Officially Certified Chronometer' printed in white.
The inside case back is stamped 1.58, indicating production of the first quarter of that year and the case still retains very good proportions. The dial is perhaps the most pleasing and rare feature about this big crown Submariner. It has aged consistently over the years, with warm orange lumes. The dial also displays what we today call 'spider webbing' throughout, which is consistent with its age, and now sought after today amongst collectors.
It is interesting to note that this watch once belonged to Alan Peter Olson (1926-1978), the respected Archeologist and Paleontologist . Olson most notably conducted research on the Ancient Navajos in Arizona during his time as curator of anthropology at the Museum of Northern Arizona. In 1964, Olson discovered new evidence suggesting that prehistoric people, dating as far as 4000 years ago, lived in the Grand Canyon and other major canyon areas in Northern Arizona. Olson wore this exact watch during his many excavations, attesting to both its practicality as a tool watch, and beauty in terms of aesthetics.
HK$480,000 - 800,000