Rolex Submariner 5513 "Service Dial" automatic 40 mm circa 1965

A brief history

Launched in 1962, the Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 holds a special place in the history of the collection. Unlike the chronometer-certified Submariners produced alongside it, it is distinguished by the absence of COSC certification on the dial—a deliberate choice by Rolex, which intended this model primarily for professional, military and utilitarian use. This functional sobriety would become one of its strongest signatures.

Produced for more than twenty-five years, until the late 1980s, the Submariner 5513 underwent numerous aesthetic and technical evolutions while retaining an immutable identity. With an estimated production of around 150,000 pieces, it stands as one of the most widely produced references of the vintage Rolex era—a diffusion that explains both its presence in many professional contexts and its iconic status today.

It traversed the decades by successively adopting different types of dials and bezels, accompanying the evolution of modern dive watch standards without ever renouncing its original DNA.

Water-resistant, legible and robust, it perfectly meets the requirements of a time-measuring instrument designed for action. Its design, dictated by function, gradually became a universal icon.

The exceptional longevity of ref. 5513 makes it today one of the most emblematic vintage Submariners. At the crossroads of the professional world and collecting, it embodies a pure and timeless vision of the Rolex tool watch: efficient, durable and instantly recognisable, without superfluous artifice.

What you need to know!

We are presenting today this Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 produced around 1965, a watch that has naturally evolved over time and through successive services, while preserving the essence of what makes the vintage Submariner legendary.

This example stands out for its so-called “service” configuration, featuring a service dial, service hands and a service bezel. Far from being a drawback, this overall coherence allows the watch to be fully enjoyed on a daily basis, with optimal legibility and great peace of mind in use. This is precisely what makes this 5513 so appealing: a historic icon, regularly maintained, ready to be worn without compromise.

The case—the true heart of the watch—retains all the charm of early Submariners: slender proportions, thin lugs and a well-balanced presence on the wrist. The domed plexiglass crystal brings that unmistakably vintage visual signature, with light reflections impossible to replicate on more recent generations. Here, one finds the pleasure of period Submariners in their most authentic expression.

Powered by the Rolex automatic calibre 1520, renowned for its robustness and longevity, this 5513 embodies the Rolex philosophy of the 1960s: a simple, reliable tool watch built to last. The service Oyster bracelet ref. 93150 with solid links and solid end-links reinforces this feeling of solidity and balance, while providing very comfortable wear.

Ultimately, this Submariner 5513 offers the approach many collectors seek today: the charm and soul of a vintage Rolex combined with the reliability and peace of mind of a well-maintained, coherent watch. An emblematic piece, somewhere between the 1960s and the spirit of 1990s Submariners—quite simply the best of both worlds.

The package

This Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 has just undergone a complete service carried out by Rolex in August 2025. On this occasion, the watch benefited from a full inspection as well as careful refinishing of the case and bracelet, performed in full respect of the original lines and proportions.

It is now offered in excellent condition, ready to be worn and enjoyed on a daily basis, with all the peace of mind that comes from recent servicing. This service allows one to fully enjoy a vintage Submariner without the constraints usually associated with older pieces.

The watch benefits from a two-year Rolex warranty from the date of service, offering rare and particularly valuable security for a reference of this era.

It is delivered with its Rolex presentation box, completing a coherent set for a piece of unique charm, combining history, reliability and everyday enjoyment.