Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 - 'Meters First' Dial

The Rolex Submariner is a true icon — and the word "icon" does get thrown around an awful lot. If you were to ask ten people at random to draw you their idea of what a watch looks like, there is a significant chance that they would draw or describe something that looks like a Rolex Submariner. It’s the dive watch of reference, and good/bad/indifferent there is no escaping it. Throughout its 70-year production, there have been countless small changes made to the model, particularly in the first decade or so, with the 5513 representing a true landmark in the history of the model.

The Ref. 5513 mirrored the slightly earlier Ref. 5512 in virtually every way, minus the chronometer certified calibre within, and therefore only 2 lines of text on the bottom half of the dial, rather than the 4 that chronometer certified watches bear until this day. The 5513 enjoyed a long twenty-seven-year production run, and like many Rolex models, there was a large number of variations to the dials, bezel inserts, bracelets, etc., which results in a very fun and interesting collecting experience.

The 5513 that we have here is known within the collecting community as a 'Meters First' 5513, for its somewhat irregular printing of the depth rating on the dial beginning in meters, followed by the equivalent in feet. These pieces usually show up dating to circa 1967, and this example is no different. The dial itself remains in fantastic overall condition. The Tritium plots exhibit a light and even patina, as well an an attractive 'puffiness' to them. The handset and Tritium pip within the bezel insert also match the dial beautifully. The case remains in strong condition, perhaps unpolished, with thick and symmetrical proportions and shows honest signs of wear and light sleeve-polish throughout. It comes fitted to a C+I 'stretch-rivet' Oyster bracelet with a signed blade-style clasp to round out the package.