Submariner 6536-1 - “No Hash Red Triangle” ca. 1957

Case No. 306,xxx

 

The batch of Submariners 6536-1 watches produced in this range have a fresh new look thanks in part to a bezel inlay design update that was introduced. The newer style bezel inlay was unique to 1957 and had a vibrant red triangle, bolder numerals and no hash marks. The dial and hands also had updates that appear subtle at first, but were also important.

The most noticeable change aside from the bezel inlay, is probably the Big Bubble seconds hand that is now painted white and stands in stark contrast to the black the dial.  But the most important update is actually the dial on this watch. It is clear that a new Cliché with bolder graphics was used to print the lettering and graphics. On the dial, Rolex finally makes the model "Submariner" name a more permanent part of the dial. This new design relocates "Submariner" model from atop of the lacquer layer, where it was not very noticeable, to the galvanic paint layer, where it has a much bolder font style and a brighter color. In addition to the brighter image and rich black background, the lacquer layer appears to be thicker with a deeper gloss.

The hands are made from a metal alloy that was gold-plated. They are also flat on top, a design that came to be known by collectors as "Gilt Hands." When the hands move about the face of the dial, the "Big Bubble" sweep-seconds hand appears to lightly graze the "Chapter" ring of the minute track. When it briefly glides over the minute hand, they are perfectly aligned.

The luminous material on the dial and hands was manually applied Radium like most Small Crowns from the 1950s. Although it no longer glows in the dark, the Radium still has a distinct "speckled" glow when exposed to UV Light and has a relatively high Geiger reading as well. Please see the "Luminous" section for further information about characteristics of glow-in-the-dark materials used by Rolex.

 

The reference number 6536/1 is stamped inside the case back with a date code. The other marks were made by watchmakers to keep track of service work orders. Rolex Service centers commonly marked their work order numbers inside the case back. The Submariner 6536-1 is powered by the Rolex 1030 Automatic Movement. The outer case back is flat.

The Submariner 6536-1 was fitted with a spring loaded Swiss rivet bracelet was made for Rolex by world renowned Gay Frères. The 20mm fixed end links are typically marked "65" or "64" and the  clasp has a stamped quality control date code.

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