Rolex 5513 Metres First, 1967

Well, I thought this would be a forever piece in the collection but times change. I have two early 70s Omegas to add and that change of focus means that this needs to move on.

It took me six years of hunting to find such an original example in such good condition. The dial is original; the fat font bezel is original; the T19 glass is original; the crown is original ... the list goes on. The only part I ever had cause to question is the twin lock clasp. While certainly correct for the watch, I think it is a later replacement.

Anyway, you all want to know how much and you usually have to wait to the end to find out but I'm going to tell you right now: £18,000. With the bracelet, end links and how original this is, I'm not going to argue over pricing. This includes delivery but you will have to bear any customs or import charges. The watch and I are in the UK. Payment details can be discussed.

That's going to get you an incredibly original 5513 metres first:



The piece is towards the later end of this watch's 2 or 3 year production run:



The case shows some marks, as you would expect but I don't think it's been polished:



As I said, you have the correct crown on there:



The original oyster bracelet (but note that the clasp may have been replaced later):



This bracelet is currently sized for my 8 inch wrist but it has another 22mm inside the clasp so will fit almost a 9 inch wrist.

There's also a pair of original 280 endings, which themselves sell for the best part of a grand:



In summary, a good original example. There are a few marks but everyone would expect as much. One thing that I forgot to mention is that the pearl isn't totally missing. It has been chipped but there are remnants in there. It wouldn't be hard to have one made to colour and reset. I know a couple of people who could do that for you if it was a concern.

As always thanks to OF for the space.

Edit to add images of the inner caseback and movement (and to realise that its a 4th quarter 1967!):

Sorry, I forgot to add one of the more important things:

I bought this watch about 8 years ago. It was inspected, checked for authenticity and then serviced (by STS). I have worn it 4 or 5 days a month since then. It has no issues as far as timekeeping or anything else is concerned but it will be due another service in the next year or two.

Going to give this a bump, not because I want it to go but because the proceeds from this will go to an Albatross. You're not telling me everyone who wants a metres first has already got one?

Bumpity