Rolex 'James Bond' Big Crown Submariner - Ref. 5510

This watch is  the highly rare and coveted vintage Rolex Submariner Ref. 5510 "Big Crown", dating to 1958.  It is one of the most legendary "grail" watches in horological history, famous for its 8mm "Brevet" winding crown, lack of crown guards, a beautifully aged black gilt chapter ring dial, and the iconic red triangle indicator on the bezel insert. Known among collectors as a "James Bond" Submariner, references like the 5510 were only produced for a very brief period, making them exceptionally scarce and valuable.  The 38mm stainless steel case retains strong lines with sharp lug profiles.  Honest signs of wear consistent with age are present, preserving its unpolished tool-watch integrity.  The original glossy black gilt dial has aged elegantly, acquiring a warm, sub-tropical charm.  The dial displays  early dive typography, including the gilt depth rating "200m = 660ft" cleanly written above the Submariner text.  The original  luminous plots and original Mercedes handset have developed a desired, rich pumpkin-colored patina.  There is some slight aging along the Chapter Ring near 7 o'clock that does not detract from the beauty of the all original dial.  The original bezel insert with the highly sought after 'Red' triangle at 12 has a charming vintage feel.  This beauty comes on a stretchy rivet oyster bracelet dated 1965  inside the clasp.   A rare masterpiece of mid-century utility design, this Reference 5510 offers an  opportunity for the discerning collector to acquire one of the rarest and most historically significant "Big Crown" Submariners ever produced by Rolex.