This mid-70s Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 “meters first” demonstrates why the Sub remains the king of dive watches. The 39mm stainless steel case with drilled lugs, which has been serviced in its time, has led a good life while retaining strong lines and visible brushing. The crown guards, in particular, are robust, having kept the broad, trip-lock crown in excellent condition over the decades. A fat font insert adds a bold, rugged charm to the iconic bezel, showing scuffs from wear that only add to the appeal.

The 5513 “meters first” dial is prized by collectors for its pure expression of the Submariner design. Two lines of text, numbers over “Submariner,” no date, and large pad-printed markers give it the look of the tool watch it was designed to be. The lume on this particular example has aged to a lovely pale yellow with hands that come in just a touch darker.

This 5513 is fitted to a 9315/380 folded link Oyster bracelet  from 1976 with a signed fliplock clasp, including a dive extension. The end links have a slight amount of play against the case, which is common for the era.