Rolex

1978 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 5513) Mk. I MAXI W/ Rolex Service Center Card

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 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. 

1970 Rolex Submariner Advertisement

This particular 1978 Rolex Submariner ref. 5513 is in absolutely stunning condition and retains its original Mk. I MAXI dial. The MAXI I dial is commonly seen in the 5 mil. and early 6 mil. stamped cases and was introduced in 1978. This was the last time that “SUBMARINER” would be printed below the depth rating in a matte dial submariner. 

There are several features of the Maxi MK I dial that are distinct and specific:

  • Thin and tall Rolex coronet as opposed to the squat and fat coronet of the Comex era dials.
  • The = sign in the depth rating is printed directly above the A in SUBMARINER.
  • The depth rating is printed above "SUBMARINER" instead of below like other MK variants of Maxi dials.
  • Specific and distinctive “zig-zag S” in “SUBMARINER” specific to MK I and MK IV MAXI dial submariners.
Stock #
RLXSM5513MXI78-2
Brand Rolex
Style Submariner
Model 5513
Serial 54XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black "Mk. I MAXI"
Millimeters 40
Bracelet Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The impressive case retains extremely thick and symmetrical lugs that retain pronounced chamfers while exhibiting minimal signs of previous polishing and gentle signs of honest use. The Mk. III "thin-font" bezel insert is in extremely crisp condition, showing no fading and almost no signs of use while retaining the tritium pearl at the 12 o'clock position. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces retains 11 links that show minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black Mk. I MAXI Submariner dial is in virtually flawless condition, showing no age or damage whatsoever. The tritium lume plots have achieved a subtle creamy patina and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands have aged a shade more creamy than the dial and coordinate with the watch perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the hands show no degradation.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes with a Rolex Service Center card from 2021. The watch is keeping time, backed by our one-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.