For $560,000, This Rare 1955 Rolex Submariner Could Be Yours
There was never any promise that collecting watches would be affordable, especially Rolexes.
Vintage Rolexes will always be in high demand, but as the brand's new watches become harder to locate, demand has only grown.
Tropical Watch recently posted a 1955 “Big Crown” Submariner 6200 for sale, for example. The gorgeous timepiece, which shows off its 66 years to the fullest in its original box and papers, still commands an asking price of over half a million dollars, even without its original box and papers.
There are a few Submariner references that are rarer, but the “Big Crown” 6200 is among the most desirable. Introduced in 1954, it is designed for professional divers and can withstand water up to 200 meters. However, as with all good Rolexes, its appeal goes beyond its functionality. The 6200 with its distinctive look stands out as particularly impressive. There is no graduation mark on the bezel, the Explorer 3-6-9 dial has a long hour hand and the lugs are wide-beveled. Stylish and functional, it's just the right timepiece.
The “Big Crown” 6200 was recently serviced, or “overhauled,” according to the sales listing, but this particular example retains all of the elements that have made it such an iconic watch. Even better, these details all demonstrate the timepiece’s age, which is exactly what you want in a vintage watch. As a result, the bezel insert fades to vivid purple, the dial is speckled with patina, and the lume is golden in color. This watch has been worn since it was brand new, so there's extensive crazing on the original crystal and the 37mm case has never been polished.
The “Big Crown” 6200 is easy to understand why people would want it. It will cost you a lot of money to own it, specifically $558,350. Even if it seems like a lot for a watch without the original documentation, it's also to be expected at this point.
There has been a shortage of Rolexe timepieces due to supply chain disruptions caused by Covid-19, as well as an increase in their prices.
For more information on this example, contact Tropical Watch. Collecting watches, especially Rolexes, has never been affordable.
