In my fall from the Omega lust tree, I hit the Rolex branch. Not too hard, fortunately for my wallet. I got a couple of books and have been studying hard. The problem is, I dislike Rolex’s modern catalog of watches. Since the 70’s, they've taken their iconic designs and jewelried them up, first with those gold surrounds on the dials. I remember the first time I saw this effect on their then new Explorers — ugh. (I bought a mid 60’s 1016 in the mid 80’s and that is how Explorers should look, at least in my eyes.) Most recently, they’ve put all their stuff on chemical growth hormones, so everything has gotten fatter and bigger, for the sake of ‘updating’. After some searching, I recently picked up a meters first 5513 from the last quarter of 1967 and I’m wearing it all the time these days. I love how clean the presentation is. It’s clearly been polished, but the dial is quite nice. I think nice 5513s are a much better deal than any of the modern Sub offerings. Btw, a great site for researching these watches: http://5513mattedial.com/About.html So, show us your beloved 5513! (5512s and earlier Subs are welcomed too!)
Love mine, some noses may be turned up at the lume in the hands but to be honest it doesn't really bother me and it will be taken care of come next service.
The 5513 is close to the Platonic ideal of a watch for me. I don't have much love for modern Rolex's designs or business practices, but you've gotta respect these real tool watches.
5513s are my favorite Rolex. Love the simplicity of the dial and the large lume plots . Heres my maxi from 82
They really are fantastic watches. The dial is so balanced +. My meters first with serial close to the one in the original post.
He said 5512's were welcome. 1959 Mark 1 silver print. Should probably find the correct insert but not at the top of my 'to do' list. If someone has a similar condition long 5 and wants to trade, shoot me a PM.
Truly lovely watches guys! I recognize many if these from the WRUW thread. I agree with @airansun about modern Rolex. These 5513's are great watches, but are out of my budget at this time. I am not sure if I will ever be up to spending that much on a watch, but let me know if you want to include me your will.
I'm surprised nobody has yet mentioned that it was a Bond watch more than 20 years before the Seamaster claimed that title.
What is it that makes them so special ? Is it the symmetry and balance of the dial ? Whatever it is it works, timeless imho. Here is my Gilt 5513 from 1966, not as good as it looks as the laquer has gone from most of the minute track, fortunately this is not apparent when on the wrist.
Wow! Beautiful pieces all! I’m glad I already own one, because otherwise this thread would drive me nuts. To me, 5513s are the most desirable 60’s vintage Rolexes. And, because for some reason, I am inclined towards 60’s watches in general, matte 5513s are probably my favorite vintage Rolexes, with 1016s running a close second. (Even if I could afford a 60’s Daytona, I can’t imagine wearing one as my everyday watch. For me, this is an important criteria.) Gilt PCG, III - 63