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Lot Essay
The present watch is a very rare example of the popular Submariner reference 5513, differing from standard versions by featuring the much sought-after "underline dial", characterized by a small silvered line underneath the gilt designation "Submariner". The watch also features the popular black lacquer dial, which is also referred to as black gloss dial. These black dials must be regarded as the ultimate state of the art in dial manufacturing as they reveal a rich complexity of different layers applied to the metal base. In fact, the gilt writing and minute markings are not printed on the black background but underneath and shine through in negative relief. However to further enhance its sophistication, the silvered underline is superimposed and printed onto the black background.
It is also interesting to note that the present watch features the first version of pointed crown guards, which adds tremendously to the overall attraction of this reference to many collectors.
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 lacquer 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.
For other examples of reference 5513 with underline dial see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani, Lele Ravagnani, Guido Mondani Editore, pp. 58 & 59.
It is also interesting to note that the present watch features the first version of pointed crown guards, which adds tremendously to the overall attraction of this reference to many collectors.
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 lacquer 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.
For other examples of reference 5513 with underline dial see Rolex Submariner Story by Franca & Guido Mondani, Lele Ravagnani, Guido Mondani Editore, pp. 58 & 59.