Our remarks

ROLEX SUBMARINER – Ref. 5513 – Vintage Stainless Steel Diver’s Watch with Glossy Black Tritium Dial – Dated 1988 – Final Series Example with White Gold Surround Markers

We are pleased to offer this very good to excellent late-production Rolex Submariner, Ref. 5513, crafted in stainless steel and dated to 1988—among the final years of production for this legendary no-date Submariner reference.

Produced for over 25 years, the 5513 holds a special place in Rolex history as the purest expression of the Submariner line. This example, bearing a L-serial number, represents the transitional "glossy dial" era, combining vintage charm with more contemporary elements that would shape future Submariner designs like the white gold circled hour markers, exclusive to the final series of the 5513. These applied markers brought a notable shift in Submariner aesthetics, enhancing legibility and providing a subtle luxury touch without compromising the tool-watch DNA.

The luminous plots and matching hands have aged to a warm, creamy patina—testament to the passage of time and the originality of the components. The "Swiss - T < 25" designation at 6 o’clock remains crisp and correct for the era.

Fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, the watch retains its vintage character, offering the soft distortions and warm glow collectors expect from a true pre-sapphire Rolex. The original unidirectional bezel insert shows light wear consistent with age, while the case remains strong and full, with well-defined chamfers and thick lugs.

As one of the final iterations of the Submariner 5513, this piece marks the end of a chapter in Rolex's professional diving history. It stands as a highly collectible transitional reference — bridging the gap between vintage matte-dial Submariners and the modern ceramic-era divers.

A timeless example of purposeful design, this 5513 offers collectors a rare opportunity to acquire one of the last true vintage Submariners in honest, original condition.

“A reference that defines the no-date Submariner — and the golden age of Rolex tool watches.”