The 1950s proved to be a defining era for Rolex, highlighted by the introduction of some of its most legendary models: the Submariner, GMT-Master, Day-Date, and Explorer lines.

As scuba diving gained traction among adventurers and professionals alike, Rolex recognized the growing demand for a dependable dive watch to help monitor time spent underwater and reduce the risk of decompression sickness, also known as “the bends.” There was also a need for a reliable timing device to track the remaining “breathing time.”

This vision culminated in the creation of the Submariner—a timepiece that would come to represent not only technical excellence and rugged reliability but also timeless design.

The Rolex Submariner reference 6205 was introduced in 1954 as one of the earliest Submariner models, alongside references 6204 and 6200. The 6205 was produced for only about a year, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector's item.

As Rolex themselves put it in the book Oyster Perpetual Submariner: The Watch That Unlocked the Deep, just 810 examples were produced. To put that in perspective: approximately 2,800 reference 6538 "Big Crown" Submariners were made.

A signficant innovation of the 6205 was the introduction of the "Submariner" name on the dial, a feature that has remained on all subsequent Submariner models, so maybe we can conclude this is the “real “first Submariner!

The “ no depth rating “ dial is still in nice condition, with the original pencil and “lollipop” seconds hands present. Although the hands have been re-lumed in the pas they still look charming. The 37.5 mm “small crown “ case stays in nice condition .The so-called “no-hash” bezel insert remains on the watch in unmolested condition, though we believe the bezel itself is a later replacement and has been paired with one of our leather straps.

This super early “Neanderthaler” Sub has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is ready to join a Submariner-themed collection.

We've enjoyed this watch for some time, and it has truly grown on us. Get in touch.

Specifications:

Rolex Reference 6205 Submariner
37.5 mm steel case “small crown - no crown-guards”
“No -hash“ bezel insert
Serial 988xxx dating to 1955
Swiss only dial , “Submariner“ no depth
Pencil hands , with “lollipop“ second hand - relumed
Coming on the photographed Bulang and sons strap
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Submariner 6205 Small Crown "First Submariner"

Rolex Submariner 6205 Small Crown "First Submariner"

Before/after