Rolex Submariner (No Date) 5513 "Meters First" Zinc Sulfide Yellow Patina Faded Blue Insert 1967 (Serviced)

Rolex Submariner 5513 in steel, ref. 5513 with meters first dial, cal. 1520 movement, circa 1967 (serial 1.7M), on riveted Oyster bracelet, recently serviced

Rolex Submariner

Rolex is one of the most recognized watch manufacturers in the world, based in Geneva, Switzerland. The brand has been producing watches since the early 1900s and built its reputation on reliable, robust tool watches designed for real-world use. Rolex watches are known for their in-house movements, solid construction, and strong resale value. They are widely collected and traded on the secondary market, and vintage references in particular have developed a serious following over the past few decades.

The Submariner is Rolex's iconic dive watch, introduced in the early 1950s. It was designed as a functional underwater tool watch, water resistant and built to handle demanding conditions. Over the decades it became one of the most recognizable watch designs in the world, influencing countless other dive watches. The reference 5513 was produced from 1962 through 1989, making it one of the longest-running Submariner references. It used a non-chronometer movement, which kept costs slightly lower than the certified COSC references of the era, but the watch itself was essentially identical in appearance and build to its more expensive siblings.

The 5513 is a significant reference for vintage Rolex collectors. Because it was produced over such a long run, there are many variations in dials, bezels, and case details that collectors track closely. Early examples from the 1960s are particularly sought after, and details like meters-first dials, long 5 bezels, and gilt or zinc sulfide lume plots are among the characteristics that serious collectors pay attention to. It sits at an accessible entry point compared to some rarer vintage Submariner references, while still holding its place as a genuine piece of Rolex history.

Key Details To Consider

This Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a solid example of a 1967-dated vintage Submariner, carrying a 1.7 million serial number. The case retains its original thick lugs and shows signs of a past polish by the previous owner, but overall presents in good shape with all case numbers perfectly visible and intact.

The dial is an original meters first configuration, and the zinc sulfide lume has aged beautifully to a warm, even yellow patina across all markers and hands. The aging is consistent throughout, which is exactly what you want to see on a dial of this age. The lume also still reacts strongly under UV light, confirming its originality. Paired with the dial is an original period-correct long 5 insert that has faded to a light blue over the decades, which complements the overall look of the watch very well.

The oyster riveted bracelet is in excellent condition with no stretch, and currently fits a 7 inch (18 cm) wrist. Additional links can be provided and added on request.

The movement has been professionally serviced in June 2026 and was pressure tested to 3ATM (30 meters), so it is ready to wear. It runs correctly and is in good mechanical health.

Overall this is a well-preserved, all-original example of the 5513 that would suit a collector looking for a genuine vintage Submariner with honest wear and strong matching components throughout.

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