The Rolex Submariner 5513 holds a legendary status among watch enthusiasts, a testament to its robust design, enduring reliability, and rich history. Within the already coveted 5513 lineage sits a particularly exclusive and sought-after subset: the COMEX 5513. These watches, produced for the French underwater engineering and saturation diving company, COMEX, represent a fascinating intersection of horological excellence and professional diving history. Understanding their nuances, variations, and value requires a deeper dive than the average ocean depth.
The Genesis of the COMEX 5513:
The collaboration between Rolex and COMEX began in the late 1960s, leading to the creation of specialized Submariners designed to withstand the extreme pressures and harsh conditions encountered during saturation diving. This partnership resulted in several distinct variations of the reference 5513, each reflecting the evolving needs and technological advancements of the time. The earliest ref. 5513 COMEX watches, surfacing around 1969/70, possess several key characteristics that distinguish them from standard production models. These early pieces typically feature non-HEV (Helium Escape Valve) cases, a significant departure from later iterations. The absence of the HEV reflects the early stages of the collaboration before the necessity of helium escape valves for saturation diving was fully understood and implemented. Furthermore, these early examples often exhibit non-logo dials, meaning the Rolex crown logo is absent from the dial, a further testament to their unique production history. The casebacks also lack the typical engravings found on later COMEX models.
Rolex Submariner 5513 Best Years:
Defining the "best years" for a Rolex 5513, especially the COMEX variants, is subjective and depends on the collector's preferences. However, several periods stand out. The early COMEX pieces from around 1969-1970, while less technologically advanced than later models, represent the genesis of this iconic collaboration and are highly sought after for their historical significance and rarity. Later years, particularly those incorporating the HEV and specific dial and hand variations, also hold considerable appeal. The period encompassing the mid-1970s to early 1980s often sees increased desirability due to the combination of desirable features, including specific dial types and case characteristics. The scarcity of well-preserved examples from any of these periods contributes significantly to their value.
Rolex 5513 Gilt and Rolex 5513 Gilt Dial:
The term "gilt" refers to the gold-colored printing on the dial and hands of certain Rolex watches. Gilt dials on the 5513, including the COMEX versions, are highly prized by collectors. The gilt fades over time, resulting in a unique patina that further enhances their desirability. The variation in the shade of gilt, from a rich, deep gold to a more faded, almost creamy hue, contributes to the individuality of each watch. The presence of a gilt dial on a COMEX 5513 significantly increases its value, making it a highly sought-after piece among serious collectors. The subtlety of the gilt, and the way it interacts with the aging of the dial, is a major factor in its appeal. The condition of the gilt, its evenness, and the overall state of the dial directly impact a watch's market value.
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