1968 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5513) Meters First

The Rolex Submariner Reference 5513 is the embodiment of the classic dive watch. The 5513 is simple yet sophisticated and rugged The Ref. 5513 was first introduced in the 1962 and ceased production in late 1989. The Ref. 5513 is a purpose built dive watch that lacks the date function like other Rolex Submariner models. (eg. Ref. 1680.)

When Rolex started printing the Submariner's depth rating on the dial, which was around late 1955 and on all submariner models starting in 1956 they were printed with a meters first depth rating. The earlier Ref. 5513 and Ref. 5512 Submariners bear the meters first followed by feet to display the depth rating which went to being printed as feet first in around 1969. Rumor has it that Rolex changed the dial to feet due to the expanding USA market. 

In addition to the meters first dial, this specific Ref. 5513 has the original and era correct Rolex 7mm "Twin-Lock" crown that does not exhibit the dots or underline like the other Rolex sports models of the same era. The original matte black dial is in immaculate and untouched condition with matching lume plots and hands which have achieved a wonderful creamy patina.