Bill
29337
Rolex 5510 vs Rolex 6538 4 line. Battle of the Big crowns.
Dec 17, 2016,06:50 AM
I hand the chance recently to photograph two great Rolex Big crowns the Rolex 5510 and the Rolex 6538 4 line. I must admit this 6538 is the best example I have ever seen and next to my 5510 you can see clearly the resemblance.
Rolex 5510 vs Rolex 6538 - Rolex big crowns.
The 5510 was produced to replace the 6538 moving from the 1030 movement the 1530 bringing an end to the caliber 1030. While the Rolex 6538 was produced for several years the 5510 had a very short life with estimates of 400-600 units produced late 1958. The 5512 replaced the 5510 in 1959. The most remarkable difference, other than the movement as the share the same crystal, 8mm crown and bezel/insert, is the case. The case is much thicker to house the 1030 movement in addition the lug ends have a much more pronounced curve which is clearly visible side by side. This was the first time that i really noticed the shape of the curved lugs observing the two watches in an unpolished condition or at least as vlose to the original shape.
No major revelations but i thought it was nice to share.
Rolex 5510 top vs Rolex 6538 notice the curved shape of the lug tips.
Rolex 5510 top vs case thickness of the Rolex 6538 bottom.
Rolex 5510 and Rolex 6538 both with big logo bracelet.
Enjoy
Bill
Rolex Big crown 5510 and 6538