The Rolex Submariner 5513, a watch synonymous with rugged durability and timeless elegance, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. While its iconic design and robust functionality are widely celebrated, a crucial aspect often overlooked, especially by those new to the world of vintage Rolex, is the case size. Understanding the nuances of the 5513's case size is essential for appreciating its history, variations, and ultimately, its value. This article delves into the details of the Rolex 5513 case size, exploring its subtle variations and connecting it to other key features that define this legendary timepiece, including its best production years, price fluctuations, bezel types, dial variations (including the coveted gilt dial), its relationship to the MilSub, Tiffany collaborations, and more.
The Nominal 36mm:
While often referred to as a 36mm watch, the Rolex Submariner 5513's case size isn't quite that straightforward. The stated size usually refers to the diameter of the case without the crown. However, due to the design of the lugs and the crown itself, the overall dimensions are slightly larger. This means that the watch will wear larger on the wrist than a modern 36mm watch from another brand, often feeling closer to a modern 37-38mm watch. The lug-to-lug measurement, a critical factor in determining wrist presence, also varies slightly depending on the year of production and even minor manufacturing inconsistencies.
Variations in Case Size: Subtleties over Time:
The 5513 was produced over an extensive period, from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. During this time, minor variations in case size occurred, although these are generally subtle and often difficult to detect without precise measuring tools. These inconsistencies are not necessarily indicative of quality issues; rather, they reflect the manufacturing tolerances of the time and the evolution of the production process. Some collectors believe that early 5513s tend to wear slightly smaller than later examples, but this is a subjective observation rather than a consistently documented fact.
The Impact of Case Size on Value:
While the exact case size doesn't drastically affect the value of a 5513, it can be a factor in determining its overall condition and authenticity. Significant deviations from the expected dimensions might suggest a re-cased watch, a serious issue for collectors seeking an original, unaltered example. Furthermore, a perfectly preserved case, regardless of its precise dimensions within the acceptable range, is highly desirable and contributes significantly to the overall value of the piece.
Rolex Submariner 5513 Best Years:
The "best" years for a Rolex Submariner 5513 are subjective and often depend on the collector's preferences. However, certain years are frequently sought after due to specific dial variations, bezel types, and overall condition of surviving examples. The late 1960s and early 1970s are often considered prime years, with examples from this period frequently exhibiting desirable features like gilt dials and certain types of bezels. The scarcity of these watches in excellent condition further contributes to their high desirability and value.
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