Introduced at the 1954 Basel Fair, the Submariner was Rolex's version of a water-resistant dive watch. While references 6204 and 6205 were water resistant to a depth of 100 meters, the more robust reference 6200 offered water resistance up to a depth of 200 meters. This model was nicknamed the “Big Crown” due to its oversized 8-millimeter “Brevet” crown that enabled cutting-edge water resistance. Of all reference 6200s, the most iconic variant is without a doubt one with an "Explorer" 3-6-9 dial like the present watch.

Production numbers of the "Explorer Submariner" were extremely limited and their serial numbers range from 31.9xx to around 32.2xx.

The dial of this particular example is remarkable and possibly unique due its configuration. The "Officially Certified Chronometer" text is rendered in three lines, rather than the usual "Submariner" only text. It would be later with the reference 6538 that the dial would display four lines of text with these models known as "Four Liners". From and aesthetic point of view, these additional 3 lines bring balance and further points of interest on the dial.

Displaying thick bevels and incredible proportions, this Submariner displays a very impressive case. It retains its original Brevet crown. Furthermore, the dial is preserved in extremely attractive condition with barely any losses to the luminous material, which has aged evenly to a beautiful warm hue. The dial has not been altered throughout its life (which is a marvel in itself as many existing examples today have been "touched up" at least once during its lifespan), and the gilt graphics shine through beautifully.