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



More posts: 10301530551055126538Oyster PerpetualOyster Perpetual DateSubmariner

  login to reply

Comments: view entire thread

 

Not everyday we see these 2, especially the 5510. The 6538 4 lines is superb, too!

 
 By: amanico : December 17th, 2016-07:58
I like these original inserts with the red triangle a lot. Thanks for sharing, Bill. Best, Nicolas

thanks for posting those two super heroes Bill, this is what dreams are made of !

 
 By: rom : December 17th, 2016-08:27
very interesting detail on the case differences !

Any you get to compare vintage Rolex watch you have to oblige.

 
 By: Bill : December 17th, 2016-08:45
We really learn best by first hand observation. The more i see the more i discover. I know it is just minute details but i always find I like to share the small details. Thx Bill

Bill....

 
 By: shipkeeper : December 17th, 2016-09:49
Having 1 acceptable is difficult, but 4 spectacular is ...........?? All the best. Juan

I only have two. Two is company three is a crowd.

 
 By: Bill : December 17th, 2016-10:52
Four and you have a party. Hagwe. Bill

LOL::!!!

 
 By: shipkeeper : December 17th, 2016-18:22
juan

The big crowns are my favorites!

 
 By: Anatol : December 17th, 2016-12:39
The big crowns are so mythical to me that they are the only Rolex watches I accept in less than fantastic condition. Now, seeing such perfect examples is really rare and hence all the more fascinating! I really enjoyed your pictures of those early heavy w... 

Big Crowns are rather special as you noted. The is something brutal about them.

 
 By: Bill : December 18th, 2016-03:57
Your collection has some super special pieces. Best Bill

it is brutal.....good description [nt]

 
 By: Baron - Mr Red : December 20th, 2016-07:15

Big Crown

 
 By: RG1 : December 17th, 2016-18:09
Lucky me, I saw them in real Thanks for sharing Bill Ronald

Thanks:-) [nt]

 
 By: RG1 : December 20th, 2016-16:02

I want one !!!

 
 By: i_am_Sam : January 17th, 2017-22:32
Great comparison Post Bill ! Such a lovely set of Big crowns as well ! Cheers Sam