THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 6536-1
YEAR: 1955
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 37mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL / LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 6536-1 is a fascinating reference and one that packs a lot of changes into a four year production period, this is why it still remains as one of the most collectible Submariners. 

Technically the 6536 started life in 1954 as a transitional reference 6536/8, this was essentially a hybrid of the 6538 big crown and the 6536. The double reference has the same dial layout as this first iteration of the 6536-1 known in the collecting world as the Red Depth. 

Based on the serial number 112xxx, this watch would have certainly been born with the Red Depth dial, however like most watches we now see from the Radium era, many were replaced by the manufacturer at service. This service dial hails from the 70's as do the hands, both are what we call dead tritium, this type of tritium has little uv reactivity, typical of the 70's and early 80's matte dials. The mk3 insert is also indicative of the 70's too. The Brevet crown has survived as has the unmarked Swiss made solid rivet bracelet with 58 end links. 

This is a super affordable way to get into a very attractive vintage small crown without the eye watering cost.