Service of the Vintage Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
The vintage Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 is valued for its clean, no-date dial and durable professional construction. Manufactured from the early 1960s through the late 1980s, the reference 5513 represents a long evolution of Rolex tool-watch design and is highly regarded by collectors today. Servicing a vintage Submariner of this caliber requires careful handling, mechanical expertise, and respect for originality—especially when preserving patina, original components, and historical integrity. Although this movement is stamped 1570, it is a 1530 with the breguet hairspring and free sprung balance (despite the KIF elastor shock protection). According to some sources, the plate was often changed out during service by Rolex.
Service Description
This Rolex Submariner 5513 underwent a complete mechanical service performed in accordance with vintage Rolex service principles. The movement was fully disassembled, ultrasonically cleaned to remove old lubricants and contaminants, and carefully inspected for wear. The movement was then properly lubricated using modern synthetic oils and regulated for stable timekeeping across multiple positions. Throughout the process, care was taken to avoid unnecessary cosmetic alterations, ensuring the watch retains its authentic vintage character.
Start the Service of Your Vintage Rolex
If you own a vintage Rolex Submariner, including reference 5513, and are considering professional service or restoration, I welcome direct conversation about your watch. If you would like to initiate the repair of your vintage timepiece contact me directly, or visit getting started.
For additional information on watches we work on please visit these pages: Vintage Rolex repair; Vintage Breitling repair; Vintage Omega repair; Vintage Heuer repair; Bulova Repair; and Pocket Watch Repair. See my FAQ for additional information, and visit Watch Repair Case Studies.
Brief History of the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513
Introduced in 1962, the Rolex Submariner Reference 5513 was developed as a professional diving watch and remained in production for over 25 years—one of the longest-running Submariner references. Unlike its date-equipped counterparts, the 5513 features a clean, no-date dial that emphasized legibility and functional simplicity, making it popular with both military and civilian divers. Early examples were fitted with gilt dials and chronometer-grade movements, while later versions transitioned to matte dials and calibers such as the Rolex 1520. Over time, the 5513 evolved through subtle case, dial, and bezel changes, reflecting Rolex’s gradual refinement rather than abrupt redesign. Today, the Submariner 5513 is highly regarded for its understated aesthetics, robust construction, and enduring connection to Rolex’s professional tool-watch heritage.
