.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
Impressive and rare example of the reference 5513, the present watch distinguishes itself through the rarity of its dial variation. Nicknamed 'Explorer' 'Three-Six-Nine' in reference to the Explorer I family, wristwatches with such unusual and rare combinations are highly coveted by astute collectors and to be found on a limited amount of references other than the Explorer. Last reference known to feature this design, the reference 5513 later evolved to feature the more common baton and round marker design making the present timepiece a very rare sighting at auction.
With a very charismatic look, the unrestored glossy 'underline' dial has developed a beautiful 'stardust' effect - giving to the watch a remarkable look. Like the colour shift of tropical dials, this characteristic is due to ageing and it amplifies the collectability and aesthetic impact of the timepiece. Moreover, the watch features pointed crown guards, affectively called "cornino" or small horn by Italian Rolex aficionados, another typical feature of Submariner watches produced between 1962 and 1964. All later versions were fitted with the now standard rounded crown guard shoulders.
The very good overall condition of the present reference 5513 is demonstrated by the full body of its case and the angles to the facets of the lugs, showing that it has not been subject to careless polishing. The watch is allied with the correct case back stamped 5513, III. 63 and deployant clasp stamped 4.63.
Reference 5513
Reference 5513 was launched in 1962 and depth rated to 200 meters (660 feet), fitted with the 8 mm. crown and pointed crown guards. The non-chronometer version used the same dial as the early reference 5512. The bezel displays minute divisions for the first fifteen minutes and has a silver triangle. The dials are black gloss and have gilt printing. As of 1964, the designation 'Swiss T<25' was added to the bottom of the dial. In the late 1960s the dials changed to feature all-white printing.
With a very charismatic look, the unrestored glossy 'underline' dial has developed a beautiful 'stardust' effect - giving to the watch a remarkable look. Like the colour shift of tropical dials, this characteristic is due to ageing and it amplifies the collectability and aesthetic impact of the timepiece. Moreover, the watch features pointed crown guards, affectively called "cornino" or small horn by Italian Rolex aficionados, another typical feature of Submariner watches produced between 1962 and 1964. All later versions were fitted with the now standard rounded crown guard shoulders.
The very good overall condition of the present reference 5513 is demonstrated by the full body of its case and the angles to the facets of the lugs, showing that it has not been subject to careless polishing. The watch is allied with the correct case back stamped 5513, III. 63 and deployant clasp stamped 4.63.
Reference 5513
Reference 5513 was launched in 1962 and depth rated to 200 meters (660 feet), fitted with the 8 mm. crown and pointed crown guards. The non-chronometer version used the same dial as the early reference 5512. The bezel displays minute divisions for the first fifteen minutes and has a silver triangle. The dials are black gloss and have gilt printing. As of 1964, the designation 'Swiss T<25' was added to the bottom of the dial. In the late 1960s the dials changed to feature all-white printing.