ROLEX SUBMARINER - 5513

A beautiful example of the iconic Rolex Submariner 5513 dating to 1967, retaining its original matte “meters first” dial — the very first iteration of this now highly coveted dial configuration. The dial has aged wonderfully, sitting beneath a lovely domed Tropic acrylic crystal that gives the watch all the warmth and character collectors look for in a proper vintage Submariner.
Like any true tool watch that has lived an adventurous life, this example shows honest signs of wear and use throughout, particularly to its service-upgraded Triplock crown, adding to the watch’s authentic charm rather than detracting from it. Fitted with the correct Mk 3 bezel insert, the dial has developed a rich cream patina that matches beautifully with the hands, giving the watch the warm, balanced appearance collectors hope to find. It is also the same style of Submariner associated with George Lazenby, who famously purchased his own Submariner in preparation for his role as the late-1960s depiction of Britain’s most famous fictional spy, further cementing the 5513’s place within both horological and cinematic history.
By the late 1960s, the Submariner had already cemented its reputation as one of the toughest and most dependable wristwatches ever made — a watch built to survive virtually anything that could be thrown at it. That enduring reputation is precisely why the 5513 remains one of the most desirable vintage sports watches in the world today.
Powering the watch is Rolex’s non-hacking calibre 1520 movement, introduced into the Submariner line during the mid-1960s. Rolex utilised the 1520 to simplify servicing and reduce ownership costs for consumers, while still delivering the robust reliability the brand had become renowned for. The result is a movement celebrated for its durability, straightforward engineering, and everyday usability — perfectly suited to the no-nonsense character of the 5513 itself.