Rolex
*Unpolished* 1966 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5513) "Meters First"
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 stands as one of the purest expressions of the classic dive watch. Introduced in 1962 and produced until 1990, the ref. 5513 enjoyed one of the longest production runs of any Submariner reference. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, featuring the iconic Submariner case design and a clean, highly legible dial free of a date complication, resulting in a tool watch that is both purposeful and enduringly stylish.
The depth rating began appearing on Submariner dials in late 1955 and was standard on all models by 1956. Early depth ratings were printed with the rating meters first, followed by the number in feet. This continued until early 1970, when Rolex made the switch to a feet-first depth rating, reportedly to appeal to the expanding US market.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXSM665513-5 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | Submariner | |
| Model | 5513 | |
| Serial | 15XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Meters First" | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The impressive case exhibits honest wear and is believed to remain in unpolished condition with the original factory chamfers fully present and crisp lug holes. The original Mk II "Fat Font" bezel insert is in excellent condition with very minimal signs of use present; the original tritium pearl is mostly present, though the top portion is missing. The case retains its original 7mm twin-lock crown. The watch comes supplied on a later-era 93150 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces and 11 links that show almost no stretch and will fit up to a 7.25-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original matte black dial is in near-perfect condition with no damage or notable age visible on the dial apart from a few nominal speckles from age. The early "zinc sulfide" tritium lume plots have achieved a charming yellow patina and remain full and round with no degradation present under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands have also taken on a creamy-yellow patina that is slightly lighter than the dial. Under UV light inspection, the second's hand has a subtle crack and remains stable, the hour hand is missing a very small piece of lume in the window nearest to the handstack, and remains stable as well.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.
