Extremely rare Rolex Oyster Perpetual 'Red Depth' Submariner...

Hammer

£26,500

Extremely rare Rolex Oyster Perpetual 'Red Depth' Submariner stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch, reference no. 6536/1, serial no. 112xxx, circa 1955, 'Swiss' dial with gilt text and red script depth rating, Mercedes hands and centre seconds, cal. 1030 25 jewel movement, the inside case back dated 'IV.55', 37mm (lacking the bezel insert and no bracelet)
-
** Introduced in 1955, the reference 6536/1 remained in production until 1959
-
** Provenance - By descent and originally owned Major General Lechmere Cay Thomas  CB, CBE, DSO & Bar, MC & Bar (1897-1981), a senior British Army officer who fought in both the First and Second World Wars. He retired in August 1948 and was granted the honorary rank of major general
-
** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lechmere_Thomas

More Information

Movement - currently functioning.
Dial - rare original dial with typical surface oxidised wear from the radium reaction over time, the markers have some wear and general staining as expected - see all images for guidance.
Glass - surface scratch marks present.
Hands - nice matching the colour of the dial radium markers.
Case - lacking the bezel insert, generally considered in good condition with typical light marks as expected, the inside case back numbered and dated, various service inscriptions.
Crown - service crown.
Strap/Bracelet - no strap or bracelet.
-
Condition reports are provided for general guidance only. Please view images and further information can be obtained upon request. Gardiner Houlgate do not guarantee the working order or time accuracy of any lots. Due to the opening of the wristwatch case backs, it is recommended watches are re-sealed by professional technicians to ensure any stated water resistance is retained