THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 5513
YEAR: 1971
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 5513 Submariner is perhaps the most legendary of the Submariner line, known for its rich history and myriad variations throughout its 25-year production run. It debuted in 1963 with pointed crown guard cases and stunning gilt dials and hands, evolving all the way through to 1988/89 when it featured white gold tritium markers and glossy dials.

In the early '70s, Rolex made a notable change to the dials, shifting the primary depth measurement from meters to feet, as seen on this example. This switch was driven by the brand's growing market share in the US, where imperial measurements were still the norm. Rolex made many variations of the "feet first" dials - from "Serif/Non-Serif", to "Pre-Comex", and finally "Maxi" MK1 to MK5. 

The present example, a "Non Serif Dial" variation, got its name from the lack of serifs on the corners of the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock markers. The watch has been kept in great condition - the tritium and hands are spotless and aged to a creamy patina. The case remains strong, with full and even lugs and crown guards. The original MK3 insert has gained a beautiful "light ghost" patina, giving the watch a striking look. It comes on a  93150/580 bracelet with clasp code is LT7 (2009), likely changed during a service. The bracelet is full links and will accommodate up to a 19.5cm wrist.

The movement came to us in great health, running at +1 seconds per day with a 305-degree amplitude and 0.0 ms beat error. This is a superb example of an early "feet-first" 5513, ready for its next home.