The Rolex Submariner 5513, particularly those delivered to the British Royal Navy, holds a mythical status amongst watch collectors. Often referred to as the "MilSub," these watches represent a fascinating intersection of military history, robust engineering, and enduring style. While the term "MilSub" is broadly applied to various military-issued Submariners, this article will focus specifically on the characteristics that distinguish the Royal Navy-supplied 5513s, covering their identification, history, market value, and the best ways to find one for sale.
Decoding the MilSub: Identifying the Royal Navy's Unique Submariner 5513
Identifying a genuine Royal Navy-issued 5513, often dubbed a "true" MilSub, isn't always straightforward. Numerous variations exist, making authentication crucial. While no single feature guarantees authenticity, a combination of characteristics significantly increases the probability. One of the most readily identifiable features is the dial. Many, but not all, Royal Navy MilSubs feature a modified "T" in a circle above the "200 meters/660 feet" marking. This "T" signifies the Broad Arrow marking, a British government property symbol. However, it's crucial to remember that not all MilSubs possess this marking; some dials simply omit the "feet" marking altogether. The absence of the "feet" marking, coupled with other indicators, can be just as important in confirming authenticity.
Beyond the dial, other features to examine include:
* The Caseback: Royal Navy MilSubs often, but not always, have a blank caseback, devoid of any engravings. However, some examples have caseback engravings. The absence of engravings doesn't automatically signify a MilSub, but its presence often points to a civilian model.
* The Hands: The hands play a crucial role in identification. Look for tritium lume plots that have aged to a creamy, warm color, a hallmark of vintage watches. The shape and style of the hands themselves can also provide clues, though variations exist across different production years.
* The Crown: The crown should be the correct type for the watch's era. Variations in crown design occurred throughout the 5513's production run. A mismatch between the crown and the rest of the watch suggests a possible modification or restoration.
* The Bracelet: While the bracelet isn't a definitive indicator, the original bracelet type can be helpful. Certain bracelet styles were more commonly associated with military-issued watches. However, many MilSubs have had their bracelets replaced over the years.
* The Movement: Inspecting the movement requires expertise and often involves opening the caseback. The caliber of the movement should match the era of the watch. The presence of aftermarket parts can immediately invalidate a watch's claim to authenticity.
It's essential to remember that many characteristics overlap with civilian 5513s. Therefore, a comprehensive examination by a reputable Rolex expert or an experienced watchmaker specializing in vintage Rolexes is crucial for accurate authentication. This is particularly important given the high value of genuine MilSubs.
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