1968 Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 'Meters First'

The Rolex Submariner 5513 was introduced in 1962 with no COSC printing on the dial (different from the 5512) and was the perfect tool watch for professional divers. First with the caliber 1530 and then, during the same year, with the caliber 1520 and updated crown-guard design.  

 

The first Rolex 5513 featured gilt dials, until the lates 1960s when Rolex introduced the matte dials. The first matte dial was the “Meters First”, nicknamed like this because it’s the only variation where the meters depth reading on the dial above Submariner came before the feet reading.

This example dates to 1968 and features a beautiful and untouched black matte “Meters First” dial with light vanilla lume patina on the hour markers. The original hands have aged to a slightly darker tone, giving the watch so much character.

 

The original, faded bezel insert is lovely, having aged to a gray/blue-ish hue, giving this piece a distinctive look.

 

The 40mm stainless steel case has been freshly polished. The case back shows some minor wear.

 

The super-domed acrylic crystal makes the dial lume plots look bigger, almost egg-shaped. The outer track is also magnified, looking alomst like a “rail” dial.

 

The watch is running well and keeping time as it was serviced in 2021 by Union Suiza in Barcelona, an old Rolex retailer. The original service invoice will be included in the sale.

 

It comes suited on the original 20mm Rolex 7206 riveted stainless steel bracelet with 80 end links and date stamped 4/67 that shows normal stretch for this type of bracelet and for its age. It was also polished in 2021 following factory standards.