Things you should know

This Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513, produced in 1983 and sold in April 1984, is a textbook example of a late matte-dial Submariner, accompanied by an exceptionally complete and well-preserved full set.

The watch features the highly desirable Maxi Dial Mark V, the final matte dial version before Rolex transitioned to glossy “bicchierini” dials. It is easily identifiable by the longer than the depth rating “Submariner” text and the alignment of the “=” symbol directly beneath the “A” in “Submariner.” The dial is in excellent condition, with lume fully intact and beautifully aged to a light warm yellow tone. The hands match the dial lume nearly perfectly, indicating a consistent and original aging process.

The stainless steel case retains strong proportions and pretty thick lugs, despite having undergone a polish in the past. Minor nicks and surface scratches are present but do not detract from its overall appearance, which remains sharp and appealing.

The caseback bears the internal engraving “5512,” a detail commonly found on the final batches of matte dial 5513s. During this period, Rolex often repurposed casebacks originally designated for the 5512 reference for use on the 5513, reflecting the brand’s famously efficient production practices—Rolex, as the saying goes, never threw anything away. This is therefore entirely correct and original for a Maxi Dial 5513 and should not be interpreted as a replaced or incorrect component.

The bezel is in excellent condition, fitted with a correct Mark IV insert for this serial range. Light scratches are visible under direct light, and the pearl at 12 o’clock is missing—a common detail on vintage examples that does not affect collectibility.

The Plexiglass crystal shows some wear, including scratches and a more noticeable nick between 2 and 3 o’clock. It was previously polished, but we chose to keep it original, preserving the domed vintage charm that defines this reference.

The watch is fitted with its original Rolex Oyster bracelet, ref. 93150 with 580 end links. The clasp is stamped with code “H”, confirming 1983 production and matching the case. The bracelet is in excellent condition, with very light stretch. One of the clasp teeth has a small crack, but it closes fine and is held securely thanks to the additional safety lock. The Rolex coronet on the clasp remains sharp and deeply defined, not polished down as often seen on over-refinished bracelets.

What truly sets this watch apart is the completeness of its original set. It includes the original inner box with the correct reference code, the original outer box featuring the “5513” sticker and black dot (indicating dial and bezel color), the original green Rolex hang tag printed with the matching reference and serial number, the Rolex anchor denoting the model's depth rating, and the 1984 Rolex calendar.

The watch is accompanied by its original warranty certificate, dated April 1984. The outer portion bears the green “004” stamp, which Rolex used to identify Astrua, the official Rolex retailer in Turin, Italy. Inside, it features a double dealership stamp: “Concessionario Unico Rolex di Torino” (Official Exclusive Rolex Dealer of Turin) and “Astrua S.r.l.”, confirming authenticity. Notably, the depth rating “200” on the certificate is printed rather than perforated, a feature consistent with early-to-mid 1980s Italian-market non-COSC Submariners.

The case, dial, movement, and bracelet are all signed by Rolex, verifying full authenticity.

In summary, this is a truly exceptional Submariner 5513, combining correct dial and insert, original bracelet, strong case integrity, and an extraordinarily complete and well-documented provenance. A true collector’s grail for those seeking the finest in vintage Rolex.