Introduction
Inspired by, and based upon, the original Rolex Submariner ref. 6358, the Tempus Machina team have taken an entirely modern Rolex Submariner ref. 114060LN and modified it to look like the ref. 6538 “Big Crown” Submariner that was famously worn by Sean Connery in the James Bond film Dr. No from 1962. Based upon the historical design, the Tempus Machina Customized Submariner Ref. 216Afeatures a red enamel triangle on its black ceramic bezel, a large unguarded original Brevet winding crown, bevelled lugs, faux patina on its dial and hands, and a dial that features gilt inscriptions throughout and a red depth rating of “300/1000” which is then covered by a domed crystal and decorated by a set of golden hands instead of the ref. 114060’s usual white gold hands. Bearing a customized caseback, the ref. 216A is a wonderful combination of iconic vintage styling and modern horological heft.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, strap, sringbar tool, hang tag
Est. value range
$10,000 – $15,000
The Details
Brand
Tempus Machina
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Customized Submariner
Movement
Automatic cal. 3135
Reference
216A (ref. 114060)
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
Circa 2015
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, Box, Strap, springbar tool, hang tag
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a vintage-inspired dial, the ref. 216A boasts gilt inscriptions, a red depth rating, and faux patina on its hour markers and golden hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
With its crown guards removed, lug bevels added, bezel ring teeth removed, and an 8mm large NOS Brevet winding crown fitted along with a domed crystal, the ref. 216A wears like a vintage ref. 6538 on the wrist but with the heft and bulk of a modern Submariner.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows surface scratches and a couple of more noticeable nicks to the case sides. The case back retains well-defined engravings and displays light surface marks. The bezel insert remains very clean, with only minor marks from wear. Original "Brevet" crown sits slightly proud on the tube as seen in the images. The dial and hands are like new. It is fitted with a solid-link Oyster bracelet in near-mint condition, showing only a few signs of careful wear. The bracelet is fitted with 13 links, 6 of which are removable, and fits approximately an 8½” wrist. Comes complete with large presentation box, spare strap, strap tool and hangtag.
Our Perspective
Combining new with old, the ref. 216A offers vintage-inspired aesthetics with the robustness, wearability, and serviceability of a modern Rolex.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
