The first Bond film was a comparatively modest event. 007's watch was only on loan to the legend: Sean Connery was allowed to wear the Rolex Submariner 6538 from producer Albert R. Broccoli in the film.
The diver's watch, produced in the 1950s, is a sought-after collector's item. The Bond actor apparently had to return the original. It is reportedly still in the possession of the producing family, which still controls the super spy's fortunes.
James Bond's watches became a running gag in the subsequent films, always pimped with gadgets by Q. On the other hand, they always remained a fashion statement fitting the film character – and a PR generator like no other for the watch manufacturers.
