1965 Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 'Gilt' dial with pumpkin patina

The Rolex Submariner 5513 was introduced in 1962 with no COSC printing on the dial (different from the 5512) and was the perfect tool watch for professional divers. They first came with the calibre 1530. Rolex originally launched it as a 17-jewel movement. Additionally, it went through a number of significant upgrades itself, including 25 and 26 jewel versions, during its successful run before retiring in 1965 and letting room for the calibre 1520.

 

The first batches of the 5513 came with gilt dials and gilt hands, then only gilt dials and steel hands, until the end of the 1960s where Rolex changed them to matte dials keeping the steel hands. These early examples with gilt dials and hands are the most sought after versions for collectors, especially those in perfect condition and unique patinas.

Offered for sale here is an extraordinary example of a Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 with ‘Gilt’ dial from 1965.  

 

The glossy gilt dial is remarkably well-preserved; it shows very light wear and no cracking, crazing or bubbling. If you have been after a gilt dial in good condition, you already know how hard is becoming to find them in this condition. The dial shows some very light tropical hints when exposed to sunlight. The big, puffy lume plots remain clean and completely intact, without any parts of lume missing (it’s very common to see “bites” to the lume plots on these are they tend to fell off). They feature a stunning vivid gold patina hue. This patina is matching perfectly with that on the original gold gilt hands. It reacts to UV as it should; glowing bright and dying off after a few seconds after the light is turned off.

 

The case is equally good. Featuring prominent lug bevels which follow factory standards, it shows only minor signs of wear with no visible mayor scratches or dents. The case back remains in the same condition. It is correctly engraved 5513 and III.64 on the inside. The bezel is also preserved with sharp edges.

 

The correct, fat font, MK 2 ‘Long 5’ bezel insert remains in lovely condition too, having subtly faded and acquiring a warmer tone when exposed under sunlight. The original pip/pearl retains a matching patina.

 

The original domed, acrylic crystal remains in great shape with only very minor marks and a lovely light crackling close to 2 o’clock.

 

It is suited on its original Rolex Swiss Riveted 7206 stainless steel bracelet with #80 end links and dated 2/65 on clasp that also remains in great condition with very little stretch for its age.

 

The watch is running well and keeping excellent time, although service history is unknown.

 

This is indeed a great opportunity to own a piece of Rolex history in collectors’ condition.

 

Macros of dial and case are available under request, as well as movement and inner case back pictures.