RolexSubmariner

Although the Rolex Submariner 6204 watch was the first to be marketed to the public, the 6200 with its thicker case allowing the 8mm ‘Big Crown’ and the double depth rating of 200m can be seen as the first professional tool diving watch. Add to this the 3-6-9 dial layout, and the Mercedes hands and it is clear that the 6200 ticks all the boxes that an ardent Rolex collector would look for.

With serial numbers ranging from 319xx to 32xxx, it is believed that only 300 watches were produced, and given their purpose, a far smaller number will have survived the intervening 67 years.

Even though it had a short production run, various dial versions exist, some with a large Rolex logo, some small, some with or without the word ‘Submariner’, and some with chronometer rating. Dials are gilt, with the model name over-printed in silver. Hands are also gilt, and both dial and hands have radium luminous material. Beneath the dial beats the A296 automatic movement.

This watch comes from the niece of the original owner and was discovered in a box of his effects after he died. The original owner was a geologist by trade, working around the world in the oil industry. He did dive, but only as a hobby, so there is a strong possibility that it was used for its intended purpose as well as being a robust travel companion. The watch has lost its bezel insert and the original bracelet has long since disintegrated.

The dial is of the ‘small logo’ type with the model name at 6 o’clock. The condition is everything a collector could hope for. The luminous material has been retained well and has darkened to a pinkish-orange. There is no green or black discolouration to either dial or hands. The black dial paint shows light pitting evenly across the surface, caused by long-term radium exposure. The crystal has the typical ‘crazed’ effect from radium exposure that points to the originality of both components. The bezel, while lacking its insert, turns freely in both directions and shows only light brassing at the edges. The crown has light marks, is undamaged, and screws down correctly. The case shows small scratches, marked and dents, but the original lines and bevels of the case are sharp and clear indicating that the watch has not been polished. Serial and model numbers are clear between the lugs although both show signs of wear from a bracelet as might be expected. The A296 movement is clean and running strongly, although timekeeping has not been checked. The case back has light scratches and internally is stamped Rolex, the model number, and what appear to be a few watchmaker marks.

The watch is currently fitted to a contemporary cotton canvas pull-through strap.

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