Rolex "Small Crown" Submariner

There are certain watches that, due to their history or their association with people we admire, are why we got into collecting watches in the first place.

As kids, we watched endless marathons of James Bond films. Now, as adults, we can recite the films line-by-line. The quiet calm that Bond exuded, and the presence of mind to deliver a witty barb in the face of his enemies, were all qualities that we admired—and still do.

An icon such as James Bond deserves an iconic watch, and the Rolex Submariner is it.

In and of itself, independent of its association with James Bond, the Rolex Submariner is icon enough. Though horologists differ on whether the Submariner or the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms was the first purpose-driven dive watch, the Submariner—released in 1953—set the standard for what a dive watch should be. It was constructed around Rolex’s Oyster case, the first waterproof wristwatch case ever to be produced, and adorned with a rotating bezel.

What resulted is perhaps the most recognizable watch in the world, spawning an innumerable amount of knockoffs—which makes the real thing all the more desirable.

Early "shoulderless" models are some of the most collectible dive watches on the market, recognizable by their slim case dimensions and bezel assemblies, as well as their lack of crown guards. Handsome and capable, they’re sought after by collectors thanks to the appearance of a “Big Crown” variant on the wrist of James Bond in 1962’s Dr. No. Examples of this Reference, the 5510, can go for hefty premiums on the market, putting them out of reach for most collectors.

For the rest of us, “Small Crown” examples of the Rolex Submariner are a hair more attainable, and are still relatively undervalued in our eyes.

Introduced in 1955, the 6536/1 is commonly considered a transitional model from Rolex's earliest executions to the later Big Crown versions. This particular example carries a 399xxx serial. In beautifully patinated condition, it features a great case and bracelet that have been professionally refinished, but with a stunning aged dial and handset that are absolutely untouched. The Radium lume has puffed up evenly, exhibiting a warm creamy coloration, and the weathered bezel insert is a thing of sheer beauty.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.