James Bond’s Rolex Submariner 6538 – 007 modified his Rolex with a Nato strap

It is not uncommon for Rolex enthusiasts, like the staff of Everest Horology Products, to be fans of James Bond. Over 23 movies (really 24), James Bond has become an icon of fashion, luxury and charisma. The different actors who have played 007 have traditionally worn a Rolex Submariner as their timepiece of choice. The first time we see James Bond wearing a Rolex Submariner was in the movie Dr. No, but surprisingly, it was not stock. Uniquely, we find 007 actually modifying the Rolex Submariner – Reference 6538, with a nylon band, similar to the popular Nato Strap or G-10 strap.

To be completely accurate, the Rolex Submariner worn in Goldfinger does not have on a nato strap but actually, a RAF style strap. The RAF strap uses a nylon band catch, commonly known as a keeper, instead of steel catches, and the band itself simply loops through the spring bars of the Rolex Submariner. The Nato Strap is a significantly more complicated design then the RAF strap. Ironically, people believe James Bond wore a Nato style strap in Dr. No, Goldfinger and other movies starring Sean Connery in the late 1960s.  The coloring of the nylon RAF style strap has also been incorrectly identified. The public thought they saw a black and grey stripe pattern, but they are wrong. The striped pattern is navy blue and olive with a very tiny dividing burgundy line in between each navy blue and olive stripe. Additionally, we notice that the 6538 Rolex Submariner lug width is 20 mm, but Mr. Bond seems to be using a strap for 18 mm. Again, a unique modification to the Rolex Submariner that is commonly overlooked.

As usual James Bond shows us that he is before his time by modifying the Rolex Submariner that was issued by Q Branch. The character played by Sean Connery in Dr. No and Goldfinger, was a debonair man who knew what he wanted and enjoyed life to its fullest. We feel that the benefits seen by the Everest Band, our new updated version of a strap replacement for Rolex, without a doubt, would be the choice of a modern day 007. James Bond has always made sure that what he wears has form, style, and function, allowing him to be classic but also modern in his own way. Sadly, times have changed, and Omega has stepped into place as the watch worn by Daniel Craig as 007. Although the character of 007 wears an Omega, the man behind the character, Mr. Craig has been seen wearing a Rolex 6538 Submariner with a Nato style bracelet. We guess that even if your day job requires you to wear an Omega, you will always desire to wear a Rolex!

The post James Bond’s Rolex Submariner 6538 – 007 modified his Rolex with a Nato strap appeared first on Bezel & Barrel written by Michael DiMartini.