Vintage time : Rolex 5513 and why you should buy it over a modern Sub

The Rolex Submariner is perhaps the best-selling and most famous tool watch that has ever been produced. The 5513 is one of the most popular references among the other few. The 5513 was produced between 1962 and 1989. It was one of the best diver in that period as the watch was very simple and easy to maintain. The 5513 is a 200m diver with a lot of dial variations. But, let’s talk about the basics first.
 

 

 

The 5513 is 40mm in diameter and it is a good entry level vintage Rolex. It has a matte dial and no date. It has a domed Plexiglass crystal and tritium markers. Most of the 5513 you can find today have aged markers which are beige in color. A normal 5513 with white dial letters and “feet-first” dial is around 47-50k HKD

 

 

Compared with modern Submariners, the 5513 feels more like a tool watch. It has better curves on the case and there are lug holes. The Maxi dial gives it very good legibility. The fun thing is that you can pair it with different leather straps and watch the watch age. The aluminum bezel insert will fade in color in time to give it a unique look. The dial markers will grow darker in color. It is not cold modern Submariners can compare. You can opt for the gilt dial on which letters on the dial are gold in color if you are willing to pay a premium for the added vintage feeling. The 5513 houses a robust 1530 or 1520 movement which is not COSC certified like that in the 5512. However, as always, Rolex’s workhorses do not fail.

HK Snob