The Rolex Submariner reference 5513, particularly those issued to military forces, holds a captivating position in horological history. Often referred to as "Milsubs," these watches represent a fascinating intersection of military necessity, robust engineering, and enduring style. While Rolex's civilian Submariners are well-documented, the specific details surrounding the military-issued 5513s remain shrouded in some mystery, adding to their allure and collector value. This article delves into the world of the Rolex 5513 Milsub, exploring its history, variations, pricing, and the factors that make it a highly sought-after collectible.
The Genesis of the Military Submariner:
Contrary to popular belief, Rolex didn't simply produce a standard Submariner and then hand it over to the military. The relationship between Rolex and various military branches was far more nuanced and involved bespoke specifications. While the exact details of the procurement processes remain largely confidential, it's understood that the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) played a significant role in the creation of the 5513 Milsub. These weren't simply off-the-shelf purchases; they were purpose-built instruments designed to withstand the rigors of military operations.
The 5513, introduced in the late 1950s, became the primary model for military supply, its robust construction and reliable movement making it ideal for underwater and field operations. Unlike their civilian counterparts, military-issued 5513s often featured specific modifications, including, but not limited to:
* Broad Arrow Hand: A distinctive feature of many Milsubs is the broad arrow hand, a symbol used to indicate British Ministry of Defence property. The presence of this hand is a key identifier when authenticating a genuine Milsub.
* Specific Dial Markings: While dial variations are abundant, certain markings, such as specific font styles, lume plots, and the absence of certain text, are characteristic of military-issued pieces. These subtle differences are critical to discerning a true Milsub from a civilian 5513.
* Caseback Markings: The caseback often bore additional markings signifying military ownership or specific batch numbers. These markings are often faint or worn due to years of use, adding another layer of complexity to authentication.
* Movement Variations: While the caliber 1520 was predominantly used, slight variations in the movement itself can be found, reflecting the evolution of the manufacturing process and the specific requirements of the MoD.
Rolex 5513 Dial Variations:
The sheer diversity of dial variations found on the Rolex 5513, especially within the Milsub context, is a testament to the watch's long production run and the changes in manufacturing processes and military specifications over time. These variations are meticulously documented by collectors and experts, forming the basis for grading and pricing. Key variations include:
* Markings: The presence or absence of the "Swiss" and "T Swiss Made T" markings, along with the placement and style of these markings, are significant factors. Variations in the font used for "Rolex Submariner" and other text on the dial are also important.
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