SUBMARINER 'EXPLORER' MODEL, REF. 5513, CASE NO. 1'000'111, CIRCA 1963

The present timepiece distinguishes itself through the rarity of its dial variation. Nicknamed the 'Explorer' or 'Three-Six-Nine' in reference to the Explorer I family, wristwatches with such unusual and rare combinations are highly coveted by collectors and are found on only a limited number of references other than the Explorer. The last reference known to feature this design, the Reference 5513, later evolved to incorporate the more common baton and round marker design, making the present timepiece a very rare find at auction.

With its charismatic appearance, the black gilt 'underline' dial has developed a beautiful 'stardust' effect, giving the watch a remarkable look. Like the color shift seen in tropical dials, this characteristic results from aging and enhances both the collectability and aesthetic impact of the timepiece. Moreover, the watch features pointed crown guards, affectively called 'cornino' or small horn by Italian Rolex aficionados, another typical feature of Submariner watches produced between 1962 and 1964. All later versions were fitted with the now standard rounded crown guard shoulders.

Reference 5513
Reference 5513 was launched in 1962 and depth rated to 200 meters (660 feet), fitted with the 8 mm. crown and pointed crown guards. The non-chronometer version used the same dial as the early reference 5512. The bezel displays minute divisions for the first fifteen minutes and has a silver triangle. The dials are black gloss and have gilt printing. As of 1964, the designation 'Swiss T<25' was added to the bottom of the dial. In the late 1960s the dials changed to feature all-white printing.