Introductory Summary
The Rolex Submariner reference 5513 is a stainless steel, no-date dive watch produced from 1962 until 1989, making it one of the longest-running Submariner references in Rolex history. It represents the definitive non-date Submariner, valued for its clean dial layout, professional specifications, and evolutionary continuity across nearly three decades.
Core Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Collection: Submariner
- Reference: 5513
- Production Start: 1962
- Production End: 1989
- Status: Discontinued
- Case Size: 40mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Bezel: Black Aluminium, Bidirectional
- Dial: Black
- Crystal: Acrylic
- Bracelet/Strap: Oyster Bracelet
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 1520 or 1530
- Power Reserve: 42 Hours
- Water Resistance: 200m / 660ft
Reference Profile
The 5513 occupies a central position in the Submariner lineage, bridging the gap between early crown-guard models and modern professional references. Featuring a 40mm case, crown guards, acrylic crystal, and black aluminium bezel, it evolved gradually over time with changes to dial text, lume material, bezel mechanics, and case details, making it one of the most studied and collected Submariners.
Movement Overview
Depending on production period and market, the 5513 was powered by either the Rolex calibre 1530 or the calibre 1520. Both are automatic movements with approximately 42 hours of power reserve, valued for their robustness and simplicity, and notably non-chronometer rated, reinforcing the 5513’s tool-watch positioning within Rolex’s professional range.
Functions & Complications
The Rolex 5513 displays hours, minutes, and central seconds only, with no date complication, preserving a highly legible and symmetrical dial. It features a black aluminium dive bezel used for elapsed time measurement, acrylic crystal, screw-down crown, and a depth rating of 200 metres, with bezel operation transitioning from bidirectional to unidirectional late in the production run.
Buyer Considerations
This reference appeals to collectors due to its long production span and wide range of dial, bezel, and case variations, including gilt dials, matte dials, and different lume materials. Originality is critical, as service dials and replacement parts can significantly affect value, while understanding period-correct configurations is essential when assessing examples.
Comparisons & Aternatives
The 5513 is often compared to the Submariner Date 1680, which adds a date complication, and to the chronometer-rated 5512, which shares a similar case but different certification status. Within the Submariner family, the 5513 is widely regarded as the purest expression of the classic, crown-guard, no-date professional Rolex dive watch.