Rolex Military Big Crown A/6538 Submariner
Vintage

Rolex Military Big Crown A/6538 Submariner

By Philipps · Oct 4, 2008 · 6 replies
Philipps
WPS member · Rolex forum
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Philipps shares an extraordinary acquisition, a Rolex Military Big Crown A/6538, a reference largely unknown to the public. His detailed post highlights the unique characteristics of this rare military-issued Submariner, offering a glimpse into its mysterious origins and distinctive features. This article delves into the specific details that make this particular reference a significant piece for collectors.

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After the Rolex meeting from last Saterday i organised with Bernhard, the tropical Tudor Suare Crown 7928 and the Proto Redsub without Minutrack i totally unexpectedly got a very special addition to my Submariner collection.

At firs i wanted to thanks MW & MS for handling me the right info, without you i wouldn't have know all secret details so i could make the right decision, thanks guys!!!

Not much is know to the public yet about the Military Big Crown A/6538, the one i got my hands on is having a nistry of Defence dial with the long coronet, and the 3-6-9 Explorer-type numerals. It is believed that this dial was printed by the MOD watchmakers at Herstmonceaux castle, and that the dial plate was subsequently used for re-painting damaged dials on later milSubs.......The original bezel was lost and has a unique design that was specially made for this watch in nickel silver / german silver...i now put on a 1665 bezel that comes closes to the original design & as i understand correctly some are found with fixed bars and some without, mine is without....







The caseback inside is having the struck-out case reference 6540 and later-stamped A/6538 markings inside with date code of III.57


I already have a Tudor Big Crown 7922 with same struck out reference number....



Nice 8 mm Brevet crown that i like so much...here together with a 'normal' 6538 in a little box..



Between the lugs on 1 side there is no serial number and on the other side A/6538




The caseback outside is having the special MOD code number and the serialnumber


Here some other Military markings...


and off course the front sides...





I always wondered about the A/6538 & the ref.6540 that was listed in the R20 catalogue with Tropic 19, now i know exact ;- )


For those that have more info, please feel free to post it or send it to me by email...

regards Philipp

About the Rolex great white Ref. 1665

The Rolex Reference 1665, known as the "Great White," is a specific iteration within its model family. This particular reference is distinct from the Reference 1680, which the collector notes as a separate model undergoing a makeover.

This example features a case described as being in good condition. The movement is a caliber 1570. The dial is a servicedial with Luminova, marked as a Tritium dial.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking specific variations within the Rolex lineup. The presence of a servicedial with Luminova, marked as Tritium, is a notable characteristic for those interested in dial variations.

Specifications

Caliber
1570, 1575
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
610m (2000ft)
Crystal
Acrylic

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The Discussion
DR
DrStrong
Oct 4, 2008
Wowww what a week !

another amazing catch, that is so rare and so strange looking with this MOD redial ! Probably as rare as your prototype 1680, and with a military history. Big congrats for this extraordinary addition. Jeff

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