Why This Watch Matters

Because the black glossy dial of the last iteration of the reference 5513 looks so good.

The Full Story

The reference 5513 was produced over two decades, until it was replaced by the reference 14060, which featured a sapphire plexiglass. Yet, towards the end of the 5513 production some of the modern features were already introduced, starting with the white-gold surrounded indexes that replaced the painted indexes. In the same vein, the black dial got a glossy finish that offered some amazing reflections through the domed plexiglass. This configuration, displayed in the current example, offers the best of both worlds – a modern aesthetic with a vintage construction. Not to mention the sweet patina that the tritium lume has taken during the past 30 years.

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex
Model: Submariner
Reference: 5513
Year: 1986
Case No: 9151740
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 40mm diameter; 13mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Automatic-winding caliber 1520
Bracelet/Strap: Period-correct Rolex stainless-steel Oyster bracelet 93150, with 580 end links
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The case shows a nice brushed finish and pronounced bevels; however, the relative positioning of the lug holes indicates that it was polished before, and the last refurbishing it got was skillfully executed. The glossy dial does not show any imperfections, and the lume has taken the same vanilla tint as the hands and indexes. The serial number engraved on the case dates it to early 1986, which is consistent with the Oyster bracelet that it is mounted on (the date on the clasp being 12/85). Furthermore, this bracelet is very tight, which is something to look forward to with a vintage watch.