The Rolex Submariner 5513: The Evolution of a Diving Legend

The Rolex Submariner 5513, produced from 1962 to 1989, holds a special place in watchmaking history. More than just a dive watch, it has become a true icon, a symbol of adventure, performance, and timeless elegance. Its evolution, marked by subtle refinements and technical innovations, testifies to Rolex's relentless pursuit of perfection.

Genesis of an Icon

Born in 1953, the Submariner was designed to meet the needs of professional divers. The 5513, appearing nearly a decade later, represents a major step forward in this lineage. It inherits the fundamental characteristics of its predecessor, the 5512, while introducing significant improvements.

A Clean and Functional Design

The 5513 stands out with its clean and functional design. The Oyster case, water-resistant to 200 meters, is crafted from a single block of 904L steel, renowned for its corrosion resistance. The unidirectional rotating bezel, graduated in 60-minute increments, allows for precise measurement of dive time. The hour markers and hands, coated with luminescent tritium, ensure optimal legibility, even in the darkest depths.

Photo: Bulang & Sons

Subtle Variations

During its 27 years of production, the 5513 underwent several modifications, often subtle but significant. The early versions, known as "Meters First," displayed the water resistance rating ("200m") above the "Submariner" inscription. Later, this order was reversed, giving rise to the "Submariner First" models.

Photo: Amsterdam Vintage Watches

Other variations concern the shape of the hands, the type of crown, the presence or absence of crown guards, and the dial design. These nuances, imperceptible to the untrained eye, delight collectors and contribute to the richness and diversity of the 5513.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Submariner 5513 lies in the evolution of its dials. The earliest models, equipped with gilt dials, are particularly sought after by collectors. These dials are characterized by their gold lettering on a lacquered black background, creating a striking sense of depth. Around 1966-1967, Rolex opted for matte dials with white lettering, marking a major aesthetic shift.

Photo: Bulang & Sons

The patina of the tritium on the hour markers and hands also deserves our attention. Over time, this luminescent material can take on hues ranging from cream to caramel, creating what collectors affectionately call a "tropical dial" when the dial itself fades uniformly to brown tones.

A High Precision Movement

The Submariner 5513 was initially introduced with a caliber 1530, but it was quickly fitted with a different, non-chronometer caliber, the 1520 (around 1963/1964). The differences between these movements are minimal. The real change came much later, with the arrival of the 3xxx calibers.

Photo: Paris Time

To be more precise, the caliber 1530 was actually an improved version of the 1520, with a more efficient regulating system. However, Rolex ultimately favored the 1520 for the 5513, likely due to production cost considerations. It wasn't until the 1980s that the 3xxx calibers appeared, marking a significant evolution in terms of precision and reliability.

The Legacy of the 5513

Production of the 5513 ceased in 1989, but its influence on current Submariner models is undeniable. The 14060, launched in 1990, adopted the aesthetic codes of its illustrious predecessor while incorporating new technologies. Later, the 14060M adopted the latest technical configurations before the transition to the 5-digit Submariner (114060): sapphire crystal, engraved flange, caliber 3130, and Superlative Chronometer certification.

Photo: Instagram @secondemorte_

Today, the 5513 is a highly sought-after collector's watch. Its history, timeless design, and legendary robustness make it an object of desire for watch enthusiasts worldwide. It embodies the spirit of adventure and technical excellence for which Rolex is renowned.

Beyond the watch, a symbol

The Submariner 5513 has transcended eras and trends, establishing itself as an absolute benchmark in the world of dive watches. Worn by explorers, actors, and influential figures, it has won the hearts of the general public, becoming a symbol of success and elegance.

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Steve McQueen, Sean Connery as James Bond, Jacques-Yves Cousteau... so many iconic figures who contributed to forging the myth of the Submariner.

The 5513 profoundly influenced the design of contemporary dive watches. Its legacy can be seen not only in current Submariner models, but also in many other manufacturers. The proportions of its 40mm case, long considered imposing, have become an industry standard.

Photo: Rolex 5513 Steve McQueen, Philips Auction

What makes the 5513 particularly fascinating is its ability to transcend its role as a diving instrument to become a symbol of timeless style. It perfectly embodies what I call "functional elegance": every element of its design fulfills a specific need, creating a perfect harmony between form and function.

Tips for collectors

For collectors, acquiring a Submariner 5513 is a wise investment. The value of these watches continues to rise, especially for rare models in excellent condition.

It is essential to consult recognized experts to authenticate the watch and verify its condition. Examining the serial number, dial, hands, crown, and bracelet allows for determining the year of production and the authenticity of the piece.

From experience, I recommend paying particular attention to the following points when acquiring a 5513:

• The engraving of the serial number between the lugs at 6 o'clock must be clear and correspond to the presumed year of production.
• The hands and dial should have a consistent patina
• The case must not show any signs of excessive polishing that could have altered its characteristic lines.
• If the bracelet is original, it must bear markings consistent with the watch's era.

Regular maintenance is crucial: I recommend a service every 5 to 7 years by a Rolex certified watchmaker to preserve the value and functionality of the watch.

The most sought-after models are:

• The "Meters First" versions from the early years (1962-1969)
• Examples with "gilt" dials in excellent condition
• The "tropical" versions have a harmonious patina.
• Models with their original box and papers, which have become extremely rare

Conclusion

The Rolex Submariner 5513 is much more than just a watch. It is a witness to history, a symbol of adventure, and a style icon. Its timeless design, robustness, and precision make it an exceptional timepiece that continues to fascinate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.