70 Rolex Fine and Sought After Submariner Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 5513, With Black Lacquered Dial

Estimate: €5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Model: Submariner
Reference: 5513
Case Material: Stainless steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless steel
Year: 1988
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1520
Case N°: L556522
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Case, dial, movement

Rolex launched the references 5512 and 5513 in 1962 as the next generation of the legendary Submariner line. Unlike their earlier predecessors, the new references featured crown guards, which gave this tool watches a more robust look, as well as protected the crown during diving of any unnecessary mishaps. The 5513 has a bezel with minute divisions for the first fifteen minutes and silver triangle, the dial can alternatively be gilt glossy with gilt printing or, like the present lot, matte with white signature. The depth is rated to 660 ft, and, as of 1964, the designation “Swiss T<25” was added to the bottom of the dial. The present watch produced in 1988 as confirmed by the case numbers, impresses by its original and well-preserved condition of the stainless steel case. The bezel has completely preserved its initial dark black color, and highlights a very low use of the watch, but the most fascinating part of this lot is for sure its dial. The tone of the luminous numerals and hands harmonize perfectly with black dial, it is impossible not to notice and fall in love with the dotted patina that is slowly taking possession of the entire dial. Out of production in 1989, this lot is one of the last produced examples of reference 5513.