Rolex Reference 6538 'Big Crown' | A stainless steel automatic wristwatch with gilt dial and bracelet, Circa 1958

Reference 6538 'Big Crown'
A stainless steel automatic wristwatch with gilt dial and bracelet, Circa 1958

Dial: glossy black gilt
Caliber: cal. 1035 automatic, 35 jewels
Case: stainless steel, screw down case back, large crown
Case number: 383’886
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with folding clasp
Size: 38 mm diameter, bracelet circumference is approximately 170 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no

Condition Report:
Case: The case with light surface scratches throughout visible to the naked eye. Previous polish and the bevel has been recut. The inside case back is stamped 'I.1958' and '6538'. Numbers between the lugs are visible. Case metal is bent between the lower lugs where case meets bezel, visible when bracelet is removed. Bracelet in worn condition with visible signs of pitting. The bracelet is stamped '7206' and the clasp is stamped ' 2 61'.

Dial: The dial is in overall good condition. Complete loss of luminous material at 5 o'clock. Partial loss of luminous material to 12, 5, 6, and 8 o'clock. The luminous material has flaked off with light signs throughout the dial. The hands with partial losses to the luminous material as well.

Movement: Signs of rust to the movement. The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.