Launched in the early 1960s and made until the late 1980s, the Rolex Submariner reference 5513 had the longest production run of all Submariner models. Its undeniable success can be attributed to many features, all of which make the reference highly sought after by collectors around the world. Their dials are a marvel of simplicity and balance with the famous logo at 12 o’clock and two subtle lines of text at 6 o’clock. At the same time, the dial is perfectly symmetric, an aspect reinforced by the absence of date. With design features that subtly evolved over time, early models are coveted most by collectors.

The present watch brings together so many details that tick the boxes for collectors. Made in 1963, the early case is fitted with pointed crown guards – a beautiful design produced for approximately three years only. Most impressive is the magnificent and original glossy dial with its gilt printing, beautifully complemented by original gilt hands with luminous inserts that perfectly match the luminous hour markers. The underline found at 12 o’clock, along with the double ‘Swiss’ print at 6 o’clock are small but very significant details that set this watch apart. Signifying the use of tritium for the luminous material, the presence of the underline is perfectly in line with the watch’s production date of 1963, used when Rolex transitioned from using radium to tritium for the luminous material. The presence of two ‘Swiss’ markings, one printed in gilt, the other with white ink, is highly unusual, and the first time seen on a Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 dial. A superb, riveted Oyster bracelet with taut, expandable links, and date stamped first quarter 1964, completes the watch, making it a worthy addition to a world-class collection of sports watches.