When it comes to vintage Rolex watches, there is much importance when considering the details as even the slightest discrepancy can cause a vast difference in value. The adventures of collecting vintage Rolex pieces are endless, and a great pleasure for the enthusiast.
The Rolex Submariner is recognized as the icon for Rolex, and all sports watch models on the market. First introduced in 1954 at the swiss watch fair, the 5513 Submariner debuted in 1962 and is considered one of the most collectible of its series despite its rarity of being in production for so many years. The 5513 Rolex Submariner, which is a line specifically designed for diving, has a movement based on the 1530 base caliber, is waterproof to 200m or 660 ft, and is a non-chronometer. This collection is known for its superb resistance to water and corrosion, watch strap included.
Famous for its feature in “Live and Let Die”, the 5513 was produced to replace the 5508 model. Since the Submariner 5513 had been made in about 1984, there are numerous changes to the dial among other details on the watch itself. Originally the Submariner had been manufactured with a gilt gloss dial on a Rolex Submariner watch strap, with a depth capacity indicator measuring from feet first to meters second.
Around 1966 the Submariner 5513 changed its look to a matte dial, with meters coming first on the death rate. Serif and non-serif dials arrived shortly after the meter first dials. The matte dial Rolex Submariner 5513 comes without a date feature as well, allowing the dial to have an uncluttered classic and traditional look. Additionally, shoulders were integrated into the side of the case for supplementary protection to the 8mm crown.
In the early 1960s, Rolex decided to swap their utilization of radium paint on the dial for a safer alternative, tritium-infused paint. Furthermore, the maxi dial, a variation featuring larger tritium plots, began its debut after 1976. The maxi dial variation continued until around 1984, with yet again another upgraded dial in black gloss with white gold surrounds. The Submariner 5513 with the original acrylic dome crystal is considered a highly transitional piece.
The Rolex Submariner watch strap is an Oyster Bracelet.
