Why This Watch Matters 5513s of this era are considered to be some of the last Submariners with a real vintage look and feel, and this one is a full set. The Full Story Rolex introduced the reference 5513 in 1962, and it was in production until circa 1990. It is one of the longest running and continuously produced references in Rolex history. This example is from 1987 and is one of the last 5513s produced without a letter in front of the case number. In 1987, Rolex started using letters in front of the case numbers to determine the year of manufacture. The present watch comes with all of its original paperwork; it was originally sold by the well known retailer Mappin & Webb in London. In 1988, this watch cost £640.80 (including a 10% discount!). The original owner took the caseback sticker off and taped it onto the receipt, this is great because typically these stickers get worn away. This watch has been routinely serviced and cared for during its life and it even comes with a service receipt and service guarantee from 1999. The overall aesthetic of this Submariner is quite nice with the toasted almond colored lume on the hour markers. Finding vintage Rolex sports watches with the original paperwork is getting tougher everyday; you won't want to miss out on this one. The Fine Print Maker: Rolex Model: Submariner Reference: 5513; inside case back stamped 5512 Year: 1987Case No: 9037792Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 39mm diameter; 14.5mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Rolex self-winding caliber 1520Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Light Olive NATO Watch StrapLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: Yes; box, guarantee, service guarantee (from 1999), service receipt, original sales receipt, product literature, and original hang-tag What we Love and What You Should Know The case is in good condition with some scratches. The case appears to have been lightly polished, but remains full. The sides of the case have some light nicks. Behind both sets of lugs show signs of wear. The inside caseback is engraved “5512,” which is not uncommon for this model. The lume on the dial has aged a shade darker than the lume on the hands. All of the lume plots except for the three, six, and nine o’clock plots have darkened from the outer edges inward and the centers of the lume plots are a bit lighter in color. The dial has developed a very light patina. The bezel insert is a service replacement. The crystal has some scratches.
