Hi all, new to the forum but not to collecting watches. Been doing this for a long time Anyways, here’s one of my favorites and it never gets old. I’ve had this since ‘89.

Back then, you couldn’t give these away. The sapphire models had come out just a few years earlier and no one wanted these. Tudor subs were selling for $375-$450 and the 5513 was still being produced (last year). I bought this for $650 at Astor’s in Memphis,TN according to my notes - on the c&i rivet bracelet.

 

Nice! I saw one for sale on Hodinkee yesterday. It sold quickly, even at $45000. I cannot afford them, but I still look! Thanks for showing it to us.

 

It’s funny you mention how out of vogue they were. I have mentioned many times that my 16750 was unloved back when I got it in 2002 (and I overpaid at $2k) for the same reasons. People think there has always been this cult around vintage Rolex, but the craze really has only been within the last decade- they were just old watches back then.

 

1972 was a great year

 

Cool, bro

 

Reminds me of stories I’ve heard of traders removing markings from milsubs in the 80s and flogging them off for a few hundred quid as they weren’t in vogue.

 

Lovely example and beautifully photographed as well. What were these shot on?

 

You could almost get a gold at that price.

 

A nice example to see and yes I do remember the times when these could be picked up for very little. Lots of fun to be had without the pedantics and high cost of today.... I do.miss!

 

I remember those prices in 1989. If I weren't a student and had to choose between a watch or 3 months rent I would have got one. Nice watch BTW.